Hummels, Pepe & the best defenders at UEFA EURO 2016

We take a look at the best defender choices for the official Euro 2016 fantasy football game, ahead of the tournament getting underway in France in the next week

With UEFA EURO 2016 just three days away, it’s time to select your team for the official fantasy game. Here’s our defender tips…

One of the most expensive defenders in the game, Mats Hummels provides your team with expertise, consistent points and an occasional goal thrown in too for good measure.

With 46 appearances to his name, the German defender possesses a solid amount of experience that will go a long way in the Euros.

France full-back Bacary Sagna is a veteran with bags of experience having been in the national side set-up for nine years. The Manchester City full-back, who has 66 appearances to his name, is a shoo-in for the hosts’ starting XI.

He may be 33 years old, but Sagna still has the same exuberance he had a decade ago. He’s a weapon down the right flank and always an assist-risk for opposition defenders.

Ricardo Rodriguez became an Under-17 world champion with Switzerland in 2009 and is now a permanent fixture in the senior side’s team.

Rodriguez boasts the threat of being lethal from set-pieces and, as a strong crosser of the ball, could very well bag a few assists at Euro 2016.

You’d expect Pepe to be among the clean sheets in the earlier rounds of the tournament as Portugal’s group stage opposition are Austria, Hungary and Iceland in Group F.

Pepe’s notorious for playing on the cusp of gamesmanship at times, so he’ll do everything within his power to win.

Despite only playing 15 times for Spain, Cesar Azpilicueta goes into the tournament as an established part of the reigning Euro champions’ squad. He should get plenty of game time.

Spain should get to the latter stages of the competition and with Azpilicueta nailing down a starting spot you’ll be raking in the points!

The ultimate utility player. Emanuele Giaccherini can play full-back, wing-back, centre-midfield or on the wing. Antonio Conte loves the Italian’s versatility, that’s why the 31-year-old is going to France.

Although he’s classed as a defender in the Euro Fantasy Game, Giaccherini may start in midfield for some games, meaning there’s more chance of offensive points from him. At €5.0m, he’s a shrewd buy.

Another Swiss defender makes the list! Before his move to Hoffenheim in 2015, Fabian Schar was one of the most in-demand defenders in Europe.

As well as being a great player with his back to goal, Schar can start attacks from his own half. His long-passing and ball-playing abilities allow him to strike from deep and put forwards into superb positions.

The cheapest option in the list, yet Sebastian Prodl could prove to be an invaluable team member. Even if you don’t opt for five at the back in your Euro Fantasy Game XI, you’ll want a defender who is certain to play to come off the bench just in case.

Prodl made his debut in 2007 and now has 56 caps for his country heading into the tournament in France.