The Premier League has a reputation for being a fast paced, rough and ready league with hard tackles flying in every other second. How true that is can be debated amongst yourselves, but we have taken a look into which 5 players average the most tackles per game in the English topflight.
1) Aaron Ramsey – Arsenal
Not only has the Wales international been incredible in front of goal so far this season – 8 goals in 9 games so far – Ramsey has been impressive in his battling for possession. In his 6 league games he has averaged 5.5 tackles per appearance.
2) Nathaniel Clyne – Southampton
Southampton have been mightily impressive with their pressing defending this season and the right-back Clyne has been a huge success so far. Clyne has played four games overall and made 22 tackles. That averages at 5.5 tackles per game, the same as Ramsey.
3) Lucas Leiva – Liverpool
The Brazilian is enjoying the new season next to Steven Gerrard as Liverpool sit second in the table. The Brazilian has averaged 5 tackles per game in his six outings, completing 30 altogether.
4) Joel Ward – Crystal Palace
A rare shining light for the newly promoted club has been the performances of Joel Ward. In his four appearances he has average 4.8 tackles.
5) Pablo Zabaleta – Manchester City
The Premier League right-back of the year last season has thrived in his role this season by making 27 tackles in his 6 games – an average of 4.7 per game.