Central defenders from Newcastle United, Leeds United, Brighton, Derby County and Aston Villa all feature in this HITC Sport poll.
Pontus Jansson of Leeds United
As we now enter arguably the most vital part of the Championship season, teams are desperately trying to tighten up at the back, so as to not let potential pushes for promotion slip, or in some cases, to stop their slide down the table.
It’s time like these that having a top class centre-half really shines through. But who is the central defender in the Championship? Before you get a chance to vote, here’s a look at some of the contenders…
1. Jamaal Lascelles (Newcastle United)
Newcastle United’s Jamaal Lascelles
The Newcastle United captain has had to wait for his chance in a black and white shirt since joining the club from Nottingham Forest in 2014. However, after stepping up during Newcastle United’s fight against relegation last season, the Derby-born defender hasn’t looked back. Now arguably one of the best defenders in the Championship, Lascelles has played a major part in Newcastle United’s success this season.
2. Pontus Jansson (Leeds United)
Leeds’ Pontus Jansson
The Swedish defender has taken Leeds United by storm since joining on loan from Torino at the beginning of the season, and the Whites were smart to get him in place to sign a permanent contract in the summer. Possibly the toughest centre-back in the division, Pontus Jansson optimises what it is to be a Leeds United player: Passionate, relentless and hard as nails.
3. Lewis Dunk (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Lewis Dunk – Brighton
Coming through the Brighton & Hove Albion youth academy, Lewis Dunk has already made over 150 appearances for the Seagulls, since making his professional debut in 2010. At the age of 25, Lewis Dunk still has his best years ahead of him, and looks to be becoming the new Ben Gibson: A homegrown defender who wears his heart on his sleeve.
4. Richard Keogh (Derby County)
Derby County’s Richard Keogh
The Derby County captain has been a stalwart at the back over the last few years, and recently marked an incredible 100 consecutive appearances for the Rams; an impressive feat, considering how many managers Richard Keogh has played under in that time. A vocal leader and often the first player to bring the ball forward, Keogh’s charging runs forward are a regular feature at Pride Park these days.
5. James Chester (Aston Villa)
Aston Villa’s James Chester
Despite Aston Villa’s shaky form this season, captain James Chester has shown his class. Joining the club from West Bromwich Albion in the summer, Chester has embraced his responsibilities at the back this season, and is likely to play a major part in what should be a push for promotion next season.
So which central defender would you pick? Cast your vote below!
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