When you think 'world's greatest fullback' over the last few years, your mind instantly stops at Philipp Lahm. Dubbed by his peers as the "Magic Dwarf", the diminutive defender (he is only 5 ft 7 in) possesses lightning quick pace, precise dribbling abilities and perfect positioning skills. Not only does he put a shift in at the back but he has also been known to maraud forward in attack, using his cunning ambidexterity to switch from flank to flank and give opponents a real headache. Technically a right-back, Lahm has also played left-back for club and country in the past, and also defensive midfield, making him an important player for both. As such, the defender is difficult to contain at the best of times and his many skills helped Bayern win a historic five trophies last season. On a personal note, the German is a proud three-time member of the UEFA Team of the Year, being named in the XI in 2006, 2008, and 2012. He has to make the cut in 2013.
Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.
