Top 5 Trickiest Attackers I've Ever Faced (by Jonathan Spector)

Yep, as promised, U.S. international Jonathan Spector becomes the first guest Top 5 Lister in NSC history... wow, when I say it like that, it sounds really important.

And so it is. I was all set to drop my own "Top 5 Summer Transfer Winners" when the West Ham defender submitted his picks for the wiliest, craftiest handfuls he's ever had the chance to square up against in competition. I have a rash of Top 5 Lists to post in the coming days, but those can wait for now.

And just like that, I hereby cede the floor to the esteemed gentleman from the great state of Illinois...

#5 - Paul Scholes

Athough I have not played against him as a midfielder, he is still one of the most difficult players to play against. He is by far the best passer I have played against. His pinpoint accuracy and creativity put strikers in great positions to score.

#4 - Fernando Torres

As a defender, he makes your job difficult. He has good speed and uses it well. He has a great work ethic and puts you under pressure both when you are defending and when you have the ball.


#3 - Didier Drogba

His size and strength make him a difficult opponent. He also has few weaknesses when it comes to finishing. He can score goals with both feet, as well as in the air from crosses.

#2 - Cristiano Ronaldo

He is the most skilled and creative player I have come across. His unpredictability makes him difficult to stop.

#1 - Thierry Henry

Everyone knows he is extremely fast, but he has an unusual ability of looking as if he is not involved in a play lulling a defender into complacency. This ability in conjunction with his speed forces you to always be focused and know where he is.

- Jonathan Spector, West Ham United/USMNT

[Ed: Enjoy a bit of splendor from Jonathan's #1 choice - and do note who #5 was scored against.]