The most pivotal player in a modern, top-flight football team is not the goal-grabbing striker. It's not the goalkeeper. It's not even the mercurial, creative No. 10.
No, the most crucial player is the deepest midfielder, who simultaneously shields the defence and starts passing moves.
The identity and style of this player influences a team's approach more than any other. Defensive midfielder or deep-lying playmaker, he occupies the same position on the pitch but takes on a different role and, consequently, signals a completely different type of team.
The nature of this player has always been a source of debate in England.