#5 The Old Guard

Rio Ferdinand has been a staple of the English Premier League for over 10 years. Originally purchased for a record fee, Ferdinand honed his defensive skills at Leeds. Shortly thereafter, following financial turmoil, Leeds was forced to sell Rio to his current home, Manchester United. Since this record breaking transfer, United and Ferdinand have enjoyed an extremely successful relationship. This relationship has proved amazing for both parties. The Red Devils and the Englishman have won numerous titles, the most impressive being a Champion's League medal, as well as four Premier League titles. Rio Ferdinand has been a class act on the field for some time and will surely look to continue his winning ways with Manchester United well into the future.

#4 Captain Fantastic

Francesc Fabregas is one of the most popular players in the world. Hailing from Spain, the 23 year old is undoubtedly the heartbeat of Arsenal. Cesc as he is a affectionately called, is constantly in the spotlight. Whether leading his team to victory or never ending speculation over his imminent transfer to Barcelona, Fabregas continues to be at the forefront of attention in North London. He recently won the World Cup with the Spanish National team and is surely looking to win some silverware at the Emirates. With Arsenal playing Barcelona in the Champion's League this month, all eyes will be on the Gunner's captain in what will certainly be a tantalizing clash of flowing football.

#3 The Little Man With a Big Mouth

Patrice Evra continues to amaze spectators with his uncanny ability to make plays at both ends of the field. The French left back often finds himself in the papers for just about everything but his play. Evra is not afraid to let he world know exactly how he feels. Patrice famously led a mutiny in the latest World Cup as France went crashing out in complete embarrassment. For Manchester United, he has been a mainstay in the starting lineup for years. Patrice Evra's service to United and his excellent skill set make this man one of the world's best defenders.

#2 The Defender Who Loves to get Forward

Dani Alves has wowed fans for a number of years. Whether it be a tantalizing, rocket of a free kick or a stupid neck warmer, Alves continues to be quite the wing back (or whatever they call that position these days). The Brazilian has spent the better part of his career plying his trade in the Spanish Primera. Following a successful stint at in his homeland, Dani ventured across the Atlantic to Sevilla and eventually found a home at his current club, Barcelona. Dani Alves is a phenomenal player, one that is truly a joy to watch. Look for him to stop the opposing attack, while marauding forward as Barcelona try to capture the league title and progress through the Champion's League.

#1 The Best Current Goalkeeper

I have a soft spot for a guy that I grew up watching between the sticks. Iker Casillas is a very polarizing figure in the football world. Some feel that he is underserving of his lofty status, however many believe he is currently the best goalkeeper in the world. Playing for the reigning World Cup champions, Iker deservedly earned the right to don the title of the world's number 1 goalkeeper.That being said, at the time of this article, his Real Madrid squad are sitting second in the league, nipping at the heals of bitter rivals Barcelona. In addition to amazing us with his ability on the field, Casillas continues to impress us off the field by consistently being linked with some of the most attractive women in the world! Iker Casillas is currently the best on the globe and at the tender age of 29, he will surely continue to be an elite shot stopper well into the future.

Players by the Number

In the coming weeks, I will highlight a player that I feel best represents a specific number for their European club team. In doing so, I hope to create a list that is both entertaining and insightful! This list will be in numerical order and will seemingly end somewhere after the number 1 and before 99. With that, enjoy and feel free to comment. Cheers.

North London Derby

Today features the North London Derby. Should be a fun one. Arsenal will surely look to secure 3 points hosting Spurs. With the Gunners entering the fixture having won 5 of their last 6 games and Tottenham lacking to keep clean sheets against their bitter rival, look for a highly entertaining match. Though I am a huge Arsenal fan, I am excited to see two fascinating opposing players in Rafael Van der Vaart and Jermaine Jenas (no the latter is not a joke, just check out the first goal). Arsenal hope to get a number of players back in action for the game. It will be intriguing to see who exactly gets the start at a variety of positions. With a bevy of counter attacking options, Arsenal should expect to put a few in the back of the net. I know I'll be up and at 'em early in the morning to watch this enticing fixture.