4) Claude Makelele
The Frenchman was the player who elevated the defensive midfield role in the minds of fans and pundits in this country. After moving from Real Madrid to Chelsea in 2003, he played a pivotal role in Jose Mourinho’s first two title wins at Stamford Bridge.
Makelele wasn’t the flashiest of players, but his tackling ability, as well as his anticipation, made him an important part of the Blues’ dominance in the mid-noughties.
