No place for Coutinho, Joe Allen or Lazar Markovic…
Football statistics aggregator WhoScored track players’ performances and contributions in every match, and have released data which reveals the average number of key passes played per game for each player
A key pass is defined as a pass that leads to a goalscoring chance, or a goal.
Here’s the five Liverpool players who’ve created the most goalscoring opportunities this term in the Premier League.
5) Adam Lallana – 1.1 key passes per game
The £26m playmaker scrapes into the top 5 ahead of Daniel Sturridge, Lazar Markovic and Mario Balotelli. His key passes have led to just the one goal, and interestingly, he only completes on average 25.5 passes every match – which is very low.
4) Alberto Moreno – 1.2 key passes per game
The only defender on the list, Moreno’s inclusion in this top 5 highlights his ability to get up the left flank and support the attackers. Our young Spaniard is probably more comfortable in the opposition half than his own, but when he gets to grip with his defensive responsibilities, he could be a real asset.
3) Jordan Henderson – 1.8 key passes per game
Henderson’s 1.8 key passes per game have earned him three assists, the second most in the squad. The vice-captain has not been at his best recently, but most believe this is because he’s been asked to play in a variety of positions as Brendan Rodgers tries to find the best formulae to revitalise the season.
2) Steven Gerrard – 1.9 key passes per game
Many have criticised Gerrard this term for not having the same creative effect from the base of midfield as he did in 2013/14, and he’s been moved slightly further forward as a result. With 54.8 passes per game, he still keeps us ticking over in the middle, and he’ll hope if he’s used further forward from now on that he’ll be able to create more chances for teammates.
1) Raheem Sterling – 2.5 key passes per match
Out in front is our most important attacking player in the absence of Daniel Sturridge, Raheem Sterling. The wonderkid’s registered four assists (highest in squad), bagged three himself, and made 2.5 key passes per match. He also completed 3.1 dribbles per match, more than any other Liverpool player. Many reckon that Sterling has too much creative responsibility on his shoulders having only just turned 20, but he’s deemed so important because he’s one of the few players delivering the goods right now.
