When thinking of potential names for the greatest full-back in Premier League history, former Manchester United man Denis Irwin is likely a player who would pop up frequently in the conversation. The Irishman made 328 appearances in the competition, scoring 18 goals and contributing a further 24 assists. He would go on to claim seven league winners’ medals under the tutelage of Sir Alex Ferguson.
As defensive royalty himself, Irwin is in a good position to recognise other greats in the position when he sees them. And during his long-awaited appearance on the Stick to Football podcast, the ex-Oldham and Wolves star revealed the five current full-backs in the English top flight that impressed him the most.
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Irwin Names Kyle Walker Among Current Top Full-Backs
The 34-year-old has struggled to find his top form of late
Revealing his top names, Irwin included the likes of Kyle Walker and Andy Robertson despite the fact that the pair have been among the biggest disappointments during the 2024/25 season. The two have been stalwarts for both Manchester City and Liverpool in recent years, but have failed to meet expectations of late as age appears to be catching up with them. The former has even secured away from the Etihad, agreeing to join AC Milan.
Meanwhile, there were also mentions for Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luke Shaw and Fulham’s Antonee Robinson too:
“Trent’s unbelievable going forward. His footballing ability is second to none. Walker has been a fantastic, athletic full-back in a great City era.
“If Luke [Shaw] gets himself fit and gets himself a run of games, he can be as good as anybody. Robertson is really clever. He’s been there a long time. He’s a bit of throwback but he can still play good football. The lad at Fulham [Robinson] has been talked about a lot too.”
Alexander-Arnold’s Premier League future is also up in the air, with his contract at Liverpool due to expire in the summer and Real Madrid waiting in the wings to snap him up. While he could be out the door at Anfield, Robinson could enter, as the Reds are among several suitors for the American.
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As for Luke Shaw, he has barely been seen throughout the 2024/25 season as his fitness problems continue. The 29-year-old has become one of the most injury-prone players in recent Premier League history.
All statistics courtesy of the Premier League – accurate as of 24/01/2025.
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