Wan-Bissaka tops Premier League tackling table

Settling at a new club is often a long-term process that requires hard work and consistency, yet it’s fair to say that Aaron Wan Bissaka is on his way to becoming a hit at Manchester United.

The right-back completed his transfer from Crystal Palace in the summer and has impressed Reds supporters ever since, by producing a series of combative and all-action performances on the flank.

As we exit the last international break of 2019 and head into the festive period, the 21-year-old Englishman has carved out an individual statistic for one of his most popular attributes.

Impressively, Wan-Bissaka has won more tackles than any other player in the Premier League this season, winning the ball 35 times during his 10 top-flight appearances as a Red.

That stat is more notable when considering the fact Aaron has actually missed two of our league outings, against Arsenal and Newcastle United, due to an injury.

Heading into Sunday's match at Sheffield United, Wan-Bissaka is top of the 'tackles-won' table and his closest competitor is Leicester City's Ricardo Pereira, on 31.

Another Foxes player, Wilfred Ndidi, is third with 29, followed by Southampton's Oriol Romeu, on 26, and Wolverhampton Wanderers' Joao Moutinho, on 25.

In terms of 'tackles attempted', according to records that are tracked by the Premier League, Wan-Bissaka is third with 54 to his name.

Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend has been speaking about his former Selhurst Park team-mate during the international break, recalling the games they shared together with the Eagles.

“Having played on the same side as him for a year and a bit, for me, he’s the best one-v-one defender I’ve ever seen or have ever definitely shared the pitch with,” said Townsend.

“Maybe going forward, he can improve some things but, definitely, defensively he’s incredible and for someone who was a winger 18 months ago, to see someone defend that well one versus one is special. I’m not surprised that Man United have come in so soon for him.”

Former United man Owen Hargreaves is an admirer of Wan-Bissaka’s superb tackling ability, yet the ex-England international is also keen for the youngster to develop his attacking contribution in terms of goals and assists.

“He’s a really good player but he’s got to add that,” said Hargreaves earlier this month.

“He got three assists last season, but hasn’t got any this season. I love him but here [at United] they use the full-backs, they get up the pitch and get goals and assists. He can improve on that.”

After resting his legs and recharging the body during the international break, Aaron is almost certain to start on Sunday when the Reds face Sheffield United in the Premier League at 16:30 GMT.

His defensive prowess may be needed against a Blades side that is fifth in the table – one point above us - following an excellent start to the campaign.