The World Cup is now just a few days away and the teams are busy with their final preparations. But some players are going to prove more crucial than others and truly stand out from the crowd. Here are a few of the players that will be crucial in this year’s tournament.

Thiago Silva (Brazil)

While a lot of attention has been given to Brazil’s attack, the defence is likely to prove key to the team’s success. In the last two World cups Brazil has suffered from poor defence and that is why Captain and centre-back Thiago Silva could be the key to the team performing well this year.

Xabi Alonso (Spain)

Xavi Hernandez and Xabi Alonso can dominate any match when they are on form playing together. However, Alonso is two years younger and Xavi has been struggling in recent times. With Alonso’s vast experience and his considerable skill, he will be key to Spain’s success.

Gary Cahill (England)

Cahill is easily England’s most important defender and he has proved himself time and again at Stamford Bridge. The back four is often a concern for the English team but if Cahill plays at his best it will certainly help the team progress through the competition.

Daniele De Rossi (Italy)

De Rossi has a huge amount of experience playing for his country, in ten years he has been capped 93 times. Not only will he bring huge amounts of skill to the team, but he is also somewhat younger than the other star players such as Gianluigi Buffon and Andrea Prilo which makes him the team’s most valuable player.