Left Back - Luke Humphreys

West Ham's transformation has had a lot to do with the development of the young English fullback. At the young age of 22, he has taken over the back end of the West Ham side, and has also been a big factor in the improvement of the English National Team. Early on this season, he was named the captain of the Hammers and has help lead the team to the top of the table.

Signed as a 16 year old from a youth squad, the youngster almost immediately became a starter in a transforming backfield. As the years went on, his development seemed to surpass that of his peers and it didn't go unnoticed as he started nearly every game for West Ham in the past 4 seasons. He's developed into a great tactician from the back and is looked upon to work the ball up the field quickly so the speedy forwards can get a fast break chance.

Manager Barrons has said publicly that Humphreys is the soul of the team, his leadership is looked upon by his teammates, even the older ones, as something they would love to give off themselves. On a team who's strength comes from midfield and attacking, he has solidified a back four that struggled to mesh in Barrons' first few seasons, but has really found a nice chemistry this year.

Only 5'11", he isn't expected to win too many headers when they come his way, but due to the work he puts in to each and every practice and game, he is able to somehow win them at crucial moments to defend the West Ham goal. The fans of England are also thrilled to have him come in so quick to replace former superstar Ashley Cole. He made his England debut at age 17, and recently competed for them at the World Cup. Although it was a disappointing tournament for England, his stock raised tremendously as his form seemed to peak in their biggest games.

West Ham appear poised to stay in contention for the EPL title this season, and to do that they'll need to have a great back four. That goal is much easier achieved with Luke Humphreys back there shouting commands and playing his heart out each game. At such a young age, he recently re-signed his contract with the team and looks to be a key player in the years to come for one of the nicest young teams in not only England, but the world.