With the international break starting, and the QSL taking a break in action QSL online has decided to have a look at some of the midfielders who are setting the agenda for their sides at the start of the 2016/2017 QSL season. All of the statistics used in the story have been supplied by the Stats Company, the QSL’s official statistical partner.

Unsurprisingly Al Sadd’s captain Xavi leads the way as the standout midfielder in the first six rounds of the QSL season. The midfield maestro has been the consummate professional in his second season with the club and has quietly been going about his work in the centre of the park.

The former World Cup winner leads the way in passes racking up 475 in the first six games. Likewise Xavi’s presence has also been felt further forward this season, with the Spaniard creating 33 chances for his Al Sadd team-mates, the highest number in the league.  

Former QSL champions Lekhwiya have started the season on good form, and have three midfielders who have made out must watch list. Reigning QSL player of the month Nam Tae Hee has been marking the difference for the Red Knights. Nam has racked up 370 passes in the opening six of the season, along with creating 20 chances for his side, the third highest in the league. The South Korean has also been more prolific in front of goal this season scoring five and assisting his team-mates on three occasions.

The Lekhwiya midfield pairing of Luis Martin and Karim Boudiaf also join the must watch list with their commanding performances in the spine of Djamel Belmadi’s side. The Qatar internationals have racked up impressive passing stats. Martin is second on the list of most passes with 442, whilst Boudiaf is not far behind on 417 the third highest tally in the league.

The second South Korean midfielder on the list is the ever dependable Koh Myong-jin of Al Rayyan.  The Lions have yet to be beaten this term, and all action midfielder Koh has certainly contributed significantly to the early title defense of Al Rayyan. Koh has registered 412 passes so far, along with 162 forward passes in the opening six games. Head coach Michael Laudup will be hoping for more of the same from the ever dependable Koh over the course of the season.