Pascal Chimbonda

Believe it or not, Wigan Athletic has the best defensive record in the Premiership so far this season. Having only conceded 5 goals, Pascal Chimbonda is certainly one reason why and showed it in the team’s win against Portsmouth yesterday.

Chimbonda scored the first goal with a header from a corner and taking a gamble to leave his back line and set up the second 10 minutes from time. He had an impressive display, not allowing the Portsmouth any attacking options on the right wing and getting forward to pressure Pompey into mistakes.

All season long the small Frenchman has been in form, showing great pace and hard work. In addition, he’s closing players down with quick feet and anticipation.

Born in Guadeloupe in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, Chimbonda joined Wigan this summer from Bastia for 500,000 pounds. Offered a three-year deal at Wigan, he turned down French giants Marseille. Before his two seasons at Bastia he made 85 appearances for La Havre.

At Bastia he only scored four goals in 67 appearances but has claimed two already this season for Wigan, the winner last week against Fulham (by muscling Papa Bouba Diop off the ball) and yesterday’s header.