It is often said that Ligue 1 is one of the tougher leagues in Europe; many players that learn their trade in France can move seamlessly to physical places like the English Premier League and instantly compete, easily holding their own.
This week we will look at some of the toughest midfielders in the league. These players never shy away from a tackle, making sure they are in the best position to break up the oppositions play. They may give away a few fouls but you’d rather have them on your side.
LANDRY N’GUEMO (Bordeaux) – 4.1 tackles per game
When French captain Alou Diarra moved to Marseille, new manager Francis Gillot’s priority was to find a replacement for very little money. In came Landry N’Guemo. There were plenty of doubters that expected the former Celtic and Nancy midfielder to fall short of filling Diarra’s boots, though Les Girondins fans will happily tell you they were wrong.
Since Gillot started lining his side up in 4-4-2 both Bordeaux and N’Guemo have impressed. Averaging 4.1 tackles a game, N’Guemo has been the rock beside the creativity of Jaroslav Plasil. His job is not to be creative or play the ball through from the back. With 2.8 interceptions a game it’s clear his job is to stop the opposition’s attack and win the ball.
He doesn’t always get it right; only two other Bordeaux players have committed more fouls than N’Guemo. He may not be Alou Diarra but he is certainly making a name for himself.
JHON JAIRO CULMA (Brest) – 2.8 fouls a game
After playing for six different clubs in five different countries it looks like, at the age of 30, Jhon Jairo Culma has finally found his home. His career has come full circle. Culma spent a year at Montpellier’s youth academy when he was 15 then via Argentina, Mexico, Costa Rica and Israel, this season he made his return to France and he has impressed all observers.
Alex Dupont started the season trying out a new look 4-4-2 and Culma was asked to be the anchor beside playmaker Bruno Grougi and although Brest struggled to score goals they have been a tough to beat and well-organised side. With Culma averaging 3.5 tackles a game and 1.5 clearances, he has looked an excellent signing by all accounts.
The Colombian has suffered a few injuries of late, including a painful looking eye injury. He should fully return to fitness in the New Year and if Brest are to keep their place in Ligue 1 they will be much better placed with Culma in the midfield.
KEVIN ANIN (Sochaux) – 2 clearances a game
The 25-year old is getting the reputation of being a troublemaker. Twice this season the midfielder has gone AWOL, deserting his team only to eventually return and find his way back into the side. Some might say the constant forgiveness shown by Mehmet Bazdarevic is a sign of weakness; it doesn’t help the coach that Anin is the best defensive midfielder in the squad.
Strong in the tackle, great positioning and a huge physical presence, there is no doubt Anin is a very talented player. Only fellow bad boy Modibo Maiga averages more fouls per game and it would seem that Anin’s disruptive side makes him a better player. Averaging 3.4 tackles per game, 1.7 fouls and 1.8 interceptions per game it is easy to see why Bazdarevic keeps showing the midfielder some compassion.
After his most recent disappearance, Anin returned after five days with no one knowing his whereabouts. He then missed one game and made his return against Paris St Germain. Sochaux impressed and it is more than likely that Anin will keep his place in the side. A move away from Sochaux could be best for both parties; he just needs to find a manager that can whip him into shape.
JAMEL SAIHI (Montpellier) – 2.5 fouls
During Montpellier’s march to the top of Ligue 1, young Jamel Saihi has been a revelation in the midfield. With the fluctuating form of Joris Marveaux and Marco Estrada; Saihi's performances have been constistant. Announcing himself in the win away at Lille, the Tunisian hasn’t looked back. Combining his excellent passing ability with a tough defensive side, it is easy to see why Montpellier’s midfield has been so hard to break down.
Saihi is still learning the position and continues to improve with each game. So far he averages 3 successful tackles per game but also 2.5 fouls. If he can reduce the amount of fouls he commits he could go on to be one of the most dynamic midfielders in Ligue 1. He already has shown a talent for the positional side of the game with 2.8 interceptions per game, combined with his composure on the ball there is no doubt that this 24-year old is a talent.
