Full-backs are the dependable line of defence, and as such, their importance in the team cannot be overemphasised, and the English Premier League has some of the best full-backs in the world.
That said, we have ranked some of the best fullbacks in the EPL right now:
Adrien Truffert (AFC Bournemouth)
Bournemouth has been one of the most consistent teams in the Premier League due to the team's collection of talents and individual brilliance. The Cherries have maintained their position in the top flight over the last couple of seasons despite some key departures.
Adrien Truffert has stepped up to claim a place on the elite list of the league's fullbacks currently. He has been a dependable player for Andoni Iraola's team.
Adrien Truffert made the switch to the EPL club from Stade Rennes. So far, he has shown to be capable with his experience in both offensive and defensive roles.
Destiny Udogie (Tottenham Hotspur)
Spurs has seen a significant upgrade in its defence over the years with the arrival of some top talents like Destiny Udogie, who has been impressive in the team.
The Italian youngster, whose primary position is left back, has been impactful since his arrival at the club. He was signed from Udinese, where his talents and consistency made him stand out.
Spurs under Thomas Frank have little or no worries except for injuries, as Udogie, Pedro Porro, Danso and Micky maintain a solid backline.
Vitaly Mykolenko (Everton FC)
Everton hotshot Vitaly Mykolenko has been an ever-present figure in the Toffees' backline. The Ukrainian has been credited as part of the team's defensive solidity.
Everyone has continued to enjoy an upward rise from the days of Dyche to Moyes when it comes to squad depth.
Vitaly Mykolenko has been a longstanding player for the Toffees even though he isn't one of the famous names you'd always hear from the stands.
Tino Livramento (Newcastle United)
After having a standout performance in the 2024/25 campaign, Tino Livramento has stepped into a commanding position in the Newcastle United first team this season. The Englishman has been ranked as one of the fastest rising English right-backs currently.
He comes with his impressive speed and energy while offering long-term solutions for the Magpies in the defence.
Newcastle United have relied heavily on defensive brilliance since the start of Eddie Howe's tenure with the team.
Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest)
The Nigerian international has maintained his impressive form for the Tricky Trees and as an influential member of the first team. He joined the Reds from Torino FC after initially playing for Fulham on loan.
Ola Aina has maintained a significant position in the heart of the Nottingham Forest defence and remains a key figure on and off the pitch. Even as the club looks beyond its success domestically, the fullback would be a crucial figure in the long run.
Neco Williams (Nottingham Forest)
Neco Williams is one of the hidden gems at Nottingham Forest, powering the club's defence alongside Murillo and Nikola Milenković. The Wales star has already established himself as one of the household names at the City Ground.
So far, the Reds have achieved a defensive solidity thanks to the brilliance of the Welsh star and other key names at the back.
Neco adds the needed attacking flair and defensive reliability while being consistent. Nottingham Forest has benefited from his brilliance, which will be needed in the long run with key fixtures at home and in Europe.
Aaron Hickey (Brentford FC)
Aaron Hickey is one of the long-standing Brentford players known for reliability at right back.
Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester United)
Noussair Mazraoui beats the odds to be one of United's favourite starters this season under Ruben Amorim. The Moroccan has also been a key player so far. His presence marks a new beginning at right back due to his versatility and dedication.
Mazraoui, alongside Bruno Fernandes, has been ranked as one of Man United's most effective signings over the years. The Moroccan international was a product of AFC Ajax before his eventual move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.
He's been versatile and can play on either side of the back line. He is simply a robust defender whose qualities in the attack haven't gone unnoticed.
Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur)
Djed Spence has been a revelation in the Tottenham Hotspur defence. The English footballer has emerged as one of the best players at the club after struggling to find his footing.
He currently commands a regular role and has successfully claimed his position in the team. He would be a key under the reins of Thomas Frank, who appears to have taken the team on a different path.
Ben White (Arsenal FC)
Ben White's emergence as a key player isn't a surprise, even as Arsenal maintain one of the strongest backlines in the English Premier League. His form ranks him high amongst the league's best right-footed players.
The England star has been applauded for his capability to hold the back four while operating at the base of the midfield. He's an aggressive player, which has been effective in preventing passes.
Over the years, he has been one of the backbones of Arsenal's defence since the €58.50m transfer in 2020 from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
Kyle Walker is one of the most experienced Premier League defenders and the main character in the Burnley defence since his move to the club at the start of the season. The England international led the Manchester City backline for several seasons, winning consecutive league titles before departing the club.
Walker isn't just a defender but one who's capable of making runs at opposing players. His performance over the years has earned him a place on England's best list. He would be a key player for Burnley FC in their quest to maintain their top-flight status beyond this season.
Reece James (Chelsea FC)
Reece James progressed through the various age groups at Chelsea and eventually earned a place in the first team and today ranks among the Premier League elites. The English star has only managed a few games in the last few seasons due to injuries. However, it does not rule out the fact that he is a modern defender.
James remains a reliable player, especially for his defensive skills, which include stopping attackers from easily accessing the defence.
Andy Robertson (Liverpool FC)
Andrew Robertson holds the title as one of the finest in the defence, having formed a strong partnership with Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool. He maintained his position at left back and remains number one for head coach Arne Slot.
So far, Liverpool looks solid from all angles, including defensively, where the Scottish footballer forms a solid backline with van Dijk and Konate.
Kieran Trippier (Liverpool FC)
Kieran Trippier has been one of the best defenders in the league over the years, having moved to Newcastle in 2022 from Atletico Madrid for a transfer fee of €14.00m.
He is an elite full-back in both the offensive and defensive roles, adding quality to the backline while delivering his best.
Trippier is one of the most experienced players on the Newcastle roster and has so far maintained his attacking skills and approach to every game.
Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Luke Shaw has been an influential figure in the United first team and remains a household name in the top flight. He's been a long-standing player at Man United and has played a significant role at the club.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United FC)
Aaron Wan-Bissaka switched to West Ham, becoming one of the fearless players in the right-back position. He was previously not in the commanding role for a starting berth at Manchester United, which eventually led to his exit from the club.
The former United man took the opportunity to explore his career elsewhere, which has paid off. With the Hammer, he has transitioned into a reliable fullback, both offensively and defensively.
Antonee Robinson (Fulham FC)
Antonee Robinson is another player who has not been under the radar. His consistency ranks him among the Premier League's best defences over the last couple of seasons. The American has been applauded for his ability to lock out wingers.
He is a defender who's capable of providing quality assists and continues to bring his best to the game.
Tyrick Mitchell (Crystal Palace)
Tyrick Mitchell is one of the players behind Crystal Palace's defensive solidity over the years. Since 2016, he's now established himself as one of the mainstays in the team.
The English footballer is known for his role as a dependable fullback in the team, even as his performance has not gone unnoticed.
Kenny Tete (Fulham FC)
Kenny Tete is one of the most important players for Fulham. The Dutchman has been a dependable player in the right-back position and has continued to maintain his position in the team.
He joined Fulham from French club Lyon in 2020. Since then, he's been part of the club's success as they make it consecutive seasons in the Premier League.
Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)
Diogo Dalot has been at the top of his game at Manchester United. In the absence of Luke Shaw, he's shown to be a key man in the defence for the team.
Dalot is very good with both feet and can start at left or right back for Man United. The Portuguese star continues to solidify his position in the team.
In case you don't know, here are some of the greatest Prem fullbacks.
Ashley Cole (Arsenal, Chelsea)
Ashley Cole is arguably one of the greatest fullbacks the Premier League has ever seen. He won three Premier League titles. He starred in Arsenal’s “Invincibles” and Chelsea’s golden era.
Gary Neville (Manchester United)
Gary Neville is another outstanding name in the league. He won up to eight Premier League titles and is often regarded as one of the best one-club legends.
Denis Irwin (Manchester United)
Denis Irwin won seven Premier League titles with Manchester United. He was a versatile, reliable, and technically gifted player who was also good with both left and right back positions.
Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City)
Kyle Walker remains one of the league's greatest players. He won five Premier League titles with Manchester City and is often considered to be one of the fastest and most athletic full-backs in league history.
Patrice Evra (Manchester United)
Patrice Evra was another household name during his playing career. He won five Premier League titles and is known for his defensive dominance in the league.