Who holds the REAL power in Game of Thrones? Mathematicians reveal the true linchpin of the series - and the surprising character who will become vital in the future

Mathematicians at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, used network analysis (illustrated left) to examine the relationships and centrality of the characters in the books. 

They identified three characters who appear to be the central figures in the storyline, although they are not immediately obvious. Perhaps the most intriguing was their discovery that Sansa Stark, played by Sophie Turner (pictured top right) could be a surprise linchpin in the twisting plots of the future installments. 

Jon Snow, played by Kit Harrington (pictured top left) was also shown to be a central character along with the embittered Tyrion Lannister, played by Peter Dinklage (pictured middle right). 

Even though King Robert Baratheon (bottom left) died early in the first series, his legacy has also remained a key element in the ensuing books and plots hatched by Cersei Lannister, played by Lena Heady (middle left) have also threatened many of the other main characters. 

Daenerys Targaryen (pictured bottom right), who is one of the rival heirs to the throne in the series, is expected to become more important as the storyline continues.