Every Position Across The Back Line
Well no-one really saw this coming. In the ever-unpredictable nature of Liverpool’s season, the resurgence of Joe Gomez has been a development in the script Liverpool fans could only have dreamt of after last season’s tribulations. The 23/24 campaign has seen Gomez not just return to form, but also emerge as a linchpin in the Reds’ defensive set-up, showcasing a level of versatility and excellence that has been crucial to date in our domestic and European quests for glory. Jurgen Klopp knows what he has on his hands. In simple terms, ain’t nobody like Joe Gomez.
The Statistics Confirm The Resurgence
The statistics reflect a player reborn and the former Charlton man has found his stride irrespective of where Jurgen Klopp positions him on the field. With 16 appearances as a full-back and 3 as a centre-back in the Premier League this season, Gomez has not just filled gaps; he has fortified Liverpool’s back line and been a key component. Proving a more than able deputy at right-back and shining at times in the Trent role itself (registering 2 goals and 2 assists), there’s a clamour for many reds to see him move into the right-back role on a regular basis and push the vice-captain into the midfield.
Level With His Peers
If you dive deeper into the analytics provided by the scouting reports, Gomez stands out, particularly in areas critical for a modern defender. His percentile rankings place him in the upper echelons for passes attempted and pass completion, signaling his role as a ball-playing defender. A ranking in the 94th percentile for passes attempted per 90 minutes encapsulates his involvement in Liverpool’s build-up play, echoing a defender comfortable with the ball at his feet and capable of initiating attacks. Let’s be serious though. If one of those efforts does hit the back of the net, we’re off up town for the night.
Southgate Hopefully Doesn’t Notice
Perhaps the greatest worry overall is that despite being a yard slower than Jurgen Klopp on the uptake, Gareth Southgate may actually realise that a player with these attributes and versatility is made for that level. Hopefully though Liverpool pray he remains in blissful ignorance and they continue to get the benefits of a player whose rest during the international breaks means he’s ready to go for us. The real positive surprise of this season to date, he’ll be needed in January more than ever. It looked a lost cause last year but it’s been good to see this year that good guys can win. Let’s hope we’re thinking the same at the end of this campaign.
