'The best defensive midfielders in the world' is the kind of list we might not have been able to publish 20-odd years ago. According to raging Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane, midfielders weren't separated into specialist roles in the '90s – they were all required both to get forward and put a tackle in when necessary. 

Given that Euro 2024 is due in mere weeks, our football experts have analysed the best defensive-minded mids in the business, from the anchors to the holders. They've compared styles but assessed which players are best by ability, form and stature to come up with the best 10 in the world.

So do you agree with us? Tell us @FourFourTwo – and have a look through our lists.