When evaluating players compared to the former greats at the same position, there can be too much of an apples-to-oranges comparison. While analyzing the current Aston Villa defenders, this is important to keep in mind.
In many systems, and stemming from what the manager will expect, the back-line members can seemingly at times have their priority not be that of protecting their goal. Instead, being the first to start an attack can often be the focus and what is emphasized in the modern game. Defending becomes an afterthought.
That is not quite the case under Unai Emery. The Spaniard has used several tactics throughout the years. In general, he does well to ensure that the formation and personnel should be able to make it difficult for the opposing attack to break down.
During the matches themselves, Emery can often be seen more upset over a mistake back there versus a missed opportunity or final pass that someone didn't see.
Here, too, Emery does ask his center-backs to be able to essentially serve as an extra midfielder in terms of their ability to take space and provide the killer pass from the backline.
Even here, each defender will be individualistic. How Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres, for example, approach defending is different, despite their playing the same position. Ezri Konsa is one of those increasingly rare types who is capable and comfortable doing everything that is asked back in front of goal.
Some concepts will hold true at Aston Villa and throughout all leagues
Teams need to have both defenders who lean closer toward Mings' skill set and that of Torres. Hard-nosed defending and being able to offer a degree of security are something that will never go out of style. Being also tactically inclined enough to be in a position to win the ball back and then start a quick counter is becoming a more critical part of what is asked of the center-backs in today's game.
When looking at potential transfer options and incoming newcomers, as well as those currently already at Villa, it is important to keep in mind what Emery is most likely looking for and asking of the individual players throughout the pitch, even if defending isn't necessarily the strong suit of the defenders in question.