The 5 most underrated Premier League defenders this season and why they deserve more credit

Published 2026-03-17

The Unsung Walls: Five Premier League Defenders Deserving More Shine

He's only started 17 league games, but no defender who’s played more than 10 has a higher tackle success rate than Joachim Andersen. Yet, when the plaudits for Crystal Palace fly, they often land on Eberechi Eze’s dazzling feet or Michael Olise’s silky dribbling. Andersen, though, is the bedrock. His aerial dominance is a given, but it’s his reading of the game and precise timing in the tackle that consistently snuffs out danger before it escalates. He's not just a stopper; he's a disruptor, and Palace's solidity owes a huge debt to his understated brilliance. Another center-back consistently operating in the shadows is Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi. In a team often praised for its attacking verve under Andoni Iraola, Senesi is the quiet anchor. He’s made more blocks (27) than Virgil van Dijk and William Saliba combined this season, a testament to his willingness to put his body on the line. He’s not the most glamorous defender, lacking the pinpoint passing range of some of his peers, but his commitment, positional awareness, and crucial interventions have been vital in transforming the Cherries from relegation candidates into a comfortable mid-table side. Moving to full-backs, the spotlight rarely finds Antonee Robinson at Fulham. While the attacking flair of Willian and Andreas Pereira often dominates the Craven Cottage highlights, Robinson’s relentless energy and defensive diligence on the left flank are indispensable. He’s completed the second-most tackles among all full-backs in the league (68), behind only Emerson Royal, and his recovery pace is astonishing. He's not just a defensive workhorse; his overlapping runs provide width and an outlet, even if his final product sometimes leaves a little to be desired. He embodies the modern full-back, without the accompanying hype. Then there's Tosin Adarabioyo, also at Fulham, though his future is up in the air. When he plays, Fulham are simply better defensively. While Tim Ream gets the sentimental credit and Calvin Bassey the physical plaudits, Adarabioyo’s calmness on the ball and ability to step out of defense with purpose are often overlooked. He boasts an 89% pass completion rate, impressive for a center-back who isn't afraid to break lines. His absence through injury has often coincided with Fulham's shakier defensive performances, a clear indicator of his quiet influence. He's a composed, modern defender who deserves a step up, and it's criminal he's not been discussed more in the context of top-six clubs. Finally, let’s talk about Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite. Yes, he’s getting more attention now, but for too long, he was merely "the young lad." This season, he's been an absolute colossus for a team under immense pressure. His aerial duel success rate (70%) is among the league’s elite, and his composure on the ball belies his age. He’s not just big; he’s smart, anticipating danger and making crucial interceptions. He’s been a revelation, a genuine leader in a backline that has consistently punched above its weight. **Hot Take:** Jarrad Branthwaite will be England’s starting center-back at the 2026 World Cup, regardless of who else is fit.