Why Liverpool's Midfield Is A Major Concern Right Now!
Does Andoni Iraola have the right midfield to implement the football he wants at Liverpool?
On Numbers Don't Lie, Dave Davis and Michael Reid dig into the data behind Liverpool's double pivot and examine why adapting from Arne Slot's more controlled approach to Iraola's aggressive, vertical football could take time.
The numbers highlight the enormous physical demands now being placed on Liverpool's midfielders, with comparisons to Iraola's Bournemouth side showing significant differences in running and sprinting output. Dave and Michael also examine Liverpool's poor midfield duel numbers against Fulham and Iraola's demand for his side to recover possession much higher up the pitch.
Dominik Szoboszlai emerges as a particularly fascinating case. His duel numbers aren't always impressive, but his running power, ball carrying, chance creation and attacking output help explain why Iraola has used him so heavily. Meanwhile, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch offer very different qualities as Liverpool attempt to discover the right balance.
And could Trey Nyoni force his way into the equation? With an opportunity potentially coming against Tottenham, Dave and Michael assess whether the talented youngster has the passing and progression to become a genuine option in Iraola's double pivot.
The numbers reveal a Liverpool midfield still learning — but one with plenty of potential if Iraola can get the balance right.
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