LB) Thomas Vermaelen
Whilst he plays in the centre of defence for his nation, Belgium, Arsenal’s Thomas Vermaelen is a player who continues to be integral to the fortunes of Marc Wilmots’ side despite his diminishing influence at the Emirates Stadium. Vermaelen has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester United after falling out of favour at Arsenal, but he should still have plenty of time to show his worth for Belgium at the World Cup.