There are a number of top quality centre-backs in the Championship and they can, at times be the difference in big games - and can ultimately ply their trade in the Premier League.
Sides chasing promotion to the Premier League need at least one quality centre-back in their team, if they hope to be genuine contenders.
While strikers score goals, defenders are just as important as they need to be organised in to see out games and win games.
While some defenders in this list have experience in the top flight, they all certainly deserve an opportunity to impress against the giants of English football.
The centre-backs in this list are some of the best in the division and they are crucial players for their respective sides.
Here are the FIVE Championship central defenders who should be in the Premier League....
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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE FIVE DEFENDERS!
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Daniel Ayala (Middlesbrough)
The Spaniard has always had the potential to be a top defender, but he always looked like he had a mistake in him and never commanded his area the way those at the top do.
However, under Aitor Karanka, Ayala's game has improved massively and he has become not only a key player for Boro, but one of the best central defenders in the division.
Ayala recently admitted that he is desperate to play in the Premier League and if Middlesbrough don't get promoted this season, a number of top flight sides may make a move for the former Liverpool star.
Michael Keane (Burnley)
A player with huge potential is a key figure in Sean Dyche's Burnley side. Joined from Manchester United, initially on loan, last summer and has impressed ever since.
Despite the Clarets suffering relegation last season, Keane looked assured and now he's in the second tier, he has emerged as one of the best defenders in the division.
He has been linked with a move to the Premier League and he certainly deserves another shot there, and he'll be hoping that this season ends with promotion for Burnley.
Jason Shackell (Derby)
New Derby Head Coach Paul Clement was desperate to re-sign Shackell from Burnley in the summer and it's not difficult to see why.
He commanded a big fee when moving to the iPro and his performances since then have justified that. He has always struggled for opportunities to play in the top flight but he has always shown that he is without doubt, on the best defenders in the Championship.
His experience and leadership at the back is crucial to Derby's side and he will be a important figure in their promotion push.
Michael Dawson (Hull)
The former Tottenham man is playing in the Championship for the first time in 11 years and although he has had injury problem, he has always been regarded as a quality centre-back.
The 31-year old will probably feel a little unfortunate that he is stuck in the second tier but his quality in defence and his natural leadership skills, mean that The Tigers could well bounce back to the Premier League at the first attempt.
Dawson is a central figure for Hull City and his quality makes him one of the best central defenders in the Football League.
Michael Hector (Reading - on loan from Chelsea)
Many eyebrows were raised when Michael Hector signed for Premier League giants Chelsea on deadline day, but Hector's defensive qualities shouldn't be questioned as he is a classy defender.
It took him some time to establish himself at the Madejski Stadium but since he did, he hasn't looked back.
Despite playing just one full season for The Royals, Hector looks every inch one of the best centre-backs in the division.