Javier Mascherano is that rarest of commodities in modern football.
An exemplar in both attitude and ability, the Argentine always gives of his best and rarely, if ever, finds himself at the centre of controversy.
A spectacular World Cup for losing finalists Argentina should have at least provided some professional reward. It was clear to anyone watching that El Jeficito was the player of the tournament, not his colleague Lionel Messi.
The image of him conducting the captain's team talk in the semi-final against Holland taught us much about his character and how well respected he is as a football player.
Marcela Mora y Araujo noted in the Guardian upon Mascherano and Carlos Tevez's return to Upton Park:
Mascherano, by contrast, comes as the veteran, visionary hero of Argentina’s World Cup campaign. His honesty, his tears and his leadership made him the darling of Argentina – pragmatic, cerebral and as far removed from controversy as is possible.
It's a perfect description which extends to club level. A "Mr. Dependable" for the ages, Javier Mascherano hasn't made more than 200 appearances for the Blaugrana by accident. Barcelona's official website details games played and trophies won during his time in Catalonia.
The timing in his tackles this season has been immaculate. An average of 3.9 per match per WhoScored.com, is the most in the team—yes, even higher than Sergio Busquets.
An average of pass accuracy at 92.4 percent across La Liga and the Champions League is also amongst the best in the squad, and it's Mascherano's best return of his career, per WhoScored.
An incredible will to win has been undeniable. No matter the opposition, Mascherano has continued to provide the highest level of service without the need for prompting from the sidelines.
A total of 16 appearances this term has seen 11 played in his usual central defensive role and five more in a preferred defensive midfield slot. Just two yellow cards since an opening-day red is also a huge improvement on the previous four seasons.
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