As we know, FSG have put statistical analysis at the forefront of our transfer policy so I've had a look at the opta stats for last year for our new signing and they look promising. Rankings are compared to the other midfielders in the Premiership Goals: Adam - 12 (6th best) Downing - 7 (joint 16th) Henderson - 3 Assists: Adam- 8 (joint 7th) Downing - 7 (joint 10th) Henderson - 4 (joint 32nd) Minutes Played Adam - 3051 (9th) Downing - 3387 (1st) Henderson - 3219 (2nd) *i found this one of the most surprising but it shows they are strong players who can be consistent over a whole season Key Passes Adam - 64 (joint 8th) Downing - 78 (joint 2nd Henderson - 78 (joint 2nd) Touches Adam - 3023 (2nd) Downing - 2538(10th) Henderson - 2493 (12th) Successful Crosses Adam - 15 Downing - 51 (2nd) Henderson - 21 (24th) Attempts on Target Adam - 35 (5th) Downing - 26 (joint 12th) Henderson - 13 As we can see, the three of them are some of the most consistent and influential performers from last year. It doesn't necessarily mean we will the see the same stats next year but they look promising and with age on their side, they should become important players for us in the future.
As we know, FSG have put statistical analysis at the forefront of our transfer policy Wait till Football Manager '12 comes out, then they'll know who to sign next!
Sorry we forgot you once took a football managerial course, I'll make sure to tell Kenny, Comolli and FSG that statistical analysis just doesn't work and they should work from gut instinct next time.
Schofield. Jog on. If it were up to you they would put an emphasis on pace and nothing else It is an excellent article however and excellently researched.
Some excellent stats. The stat about 'Minutes Played' is a good stat for me as well as it shows that they don't get injured and that is crucial.
It is.It shows consistency.Its seperates the Dirk Kuyts from the Darreen Andertons,and the Lucas' from the Owen Hargreaves'
The stats look good and show that all three are good attacking options. I think it's good that we now have players all over the pitch that are capable of scoring. Before it was Torres & Gerrard & Kuyt and when Torres wasn't playing I think everyone was wondering where the next goal was going to come from. Now it seems we have Suarez, Carrol, Kuyt, Gerrad (if he hits form) all capable with getting double figures along with Downing, Adam, Maxi, Meireles all capable of getting between 5 - 10 goals a season. Can't wait for the season to get going and with a LB and maybe cover at CB coming in I think we'll have one of the strongest squads we've had in the last 5 years or so. The only downside is the great Igor isn't still around as I think he'd push us onto the next level and have a brilliant chance of wining the league!!
One thing Comolli mentioned, which isn't shown so much by stats - goodness me, non-statistical assessments as well? - was their character when their respective teams weren't doing so well last season. Downing, Adam and Henderson all dug in.
I think the stats show a baseline of what players are capable of, not to say they can't do better, just what is an acceptable minimum.
What exactly is your point? That DC and KK did more than look at stats before they chose their player...? I'd hope so.
Agreed, we seem to have a squad with a healthy competition for places and without any prima donnas. The british core will help communication and understanding between players and the guys we've bought all seem focussed on working hard and doing the best for the club- theres not much more we can ask!
