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The left backs is a position under constant threat, consistently pitted against football's fastest players, winger. The likes of Cristiano Ronald, Lionel Messi and Theo Walcott constantly torment left backs with their searing pace and admirable balance yet somehow the defenders remain strong, as well as contributing in attack.

Left backs efforts to have a large tendency to go unnoticed due to the rarity of goals and assists. Despite having to control and shut down some of the fastest footballers going around it can sometime be an unrewarding position.

So in dedication of left backs, this article will establish and rank the world football’s top ten left backs.

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The 21 year old may have only been playing in Arsenal colours for just over three seasons, one which was largely dominated by injury, but Kieran Gibbs has proven he is a world class left back and is undoubtedly set to enjoy a glistening career.

The former Wimbledon youth prides himself on his physical yet elegant approach that has earned the starlet an England cap. Gibbs is capable of fulfilling numerous roles in the backline and midfield along with wing roles.

Gibbs is set to excel in the future and if the Englishman can stay fit than the future looks bright, red and white.

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The Everton defender has been a consistent performer in the Premier League for just over five years now, recently earning a debut English cap. Blessed with promising speed and a controlled cross which greatly benefits his teams attack. Baines is also a deceptively strong defender whose intelligence is more than useful off set pieces and corners.

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Although the Brazilian has been utilized as a left winger by a string of coaches, the 22 year old operates best at his primary role of let back. A quick, intelligent defender, Marcelo has strong control and an aggressive defensive mindset.

Marcelo’s versatility is a great benefit to Spanish giants Madrid and his damaging runs provide an extra attacking dimension.

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Arguably one of the quiet achievers of European football. Maxwell often contributes solid performances without setting the world alight but merely doing his job with ease. The 29 year old is a consistent performer boasting strong speed alongside adequate versatility and impressive club.

The former Inter Milan defender has been at a trio of giant clubs, accumulating a admirable tally of awards and trophies. The Brazilian is a worthy addition as one of the ten best left backs.

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A quietly spoken defender, the Cameroon international often contributes strong efforts without much recognition. None the less Assou-Ekotto is a quality left back who boast a physical game style containing some crunching tackles.

The former Rennes defender has also been a gallant performer having overcome a string of injuries and adversity. Now regarded as one of the world’s most consistent left backs, Assou-Ekotto thoroughly deserves his place.

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Chivu has been an excellent performer for a number of big name clubs as well as being one of the focal points in the Romanian teams. Blessed with an imposing figure, great strength and credible speed, the 29 year old is renowned for his sharp clearances and powerful head.

The Romanian has enjoyed a successful career having succeeded in the Champions League, Serie A, Coppa Italia, Dutch Cup and Eredivise, as well as being crowned Romanian Player of the Year on three occasions.

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The Frenchman is one of the fastest and agile defenders in Europe and has performed strongly up against some worthy opponents. The 25 year old is also a natural leader with great experience and a cool head when under pressure.

Clichy is one of the main leaders in the Arsenal line up and continues to perform strongly for the North London giants.

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The veteran Spaniard is still performing strongly at the ripe age of 32. Capdivella has been a superb performer for a number of clubs around Spain and has found home at Villarreal for over half a decade now.

The Spanish international has also achieved a World Cup trophy, featuring heavily for the Champions during the 2010 World Cup. Capdivella is a natural leader, with a calm head who has contained some of the World’s best wingers and is easily worthy on his place.

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The United defender has made the left back role his own perform greatly and consistently in nearly every match he plays. A tenacious back with immense strength and power, the 29 year old is also a strong threat with the ball providing scintillating crosses and damaging runs.

Evra can admit he is has endured a world of critics and comments but continues to deal with any form of hatred in a mature and calm manner which just furthers the reliable defenders image.

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The Englishman has a number of off field issues but continues to be an ever present force for Chelsea and England. Blessed with speed, strength and tenacity, Cole is a handful to come up against. Consistently keeping Chelsea left flank neat and tidy as well as contributing as a more than decent attacker.

Before arriving to Stamford Bridge in 2006 the 29 year old was a reliable presence for Arsenal, where he won the Premiership on a number of occasions and was part of the famous Invincibles squad. Cole may not be the most favoured or admired defender in Europe but there is no denying the former Gunners is one fine left back.