£26m summer signing also included…
Lucas has recently been quoted as claiming he’s playing the best football of his life, and it’s been his defensive contribution that has most helped us revitalise a previously stumbling campaign.
These five Liverpool stars have averaged more tackles per match than any other so far this season…
How high do you think Lucas will rank..?
(Stats courtesy of WhoScored)
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5) Adam Lallana – 2.2 tackles per game
The biggest shock entrance in the top 5, Lallana has made more tackles per match than the likes of Steven Gerrard, Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho. The new signing’s inclusion demonstrates the facts he directly fits into Brendan Rodgers’ pressing style of football – and shows his defensive work-rate in the final third.
4) Jordan Henderson – 2.4 tackles per game
Henderson is valued for his all-round midfield play – both offensive and defensive. While he’s notched two and registered six assists, he’s consistently made tackles in the centre of the park as well. As a result of his versatility, Henderson’s been used on the right, the left and the centre so far this term – but with a fixed formation now found – he can expect to be in the centre until the summer – where he’s at his best.
3) Alberto Moreno – 2.5 tackles per game
The young Spaniard arrived in the summer, and after a slow start, has gradually proved he’s worthy of a place in the starting lineup. Naturally a left-back, Moreno’s been deployed in a left wing-back/left-wing role (depending on which way you look at it) mostly, and while his offensive skills are most noticeable, it’s good to see he isn’t totally neglecting his defensive duties.
2) Javier Manquillo – 3.2 tackles per game
Manquillo is one quarter way through his two-year-loan, and considering the fact we haven’t spent any money on him, and the fact he’s only 20, the Spaniard has done well. Only one player in the squad has averaged more tackles per match than Manquillo, who’s proving to be a tidy squad option.
1) Lucas – 4 tackles per game
This statistic is the one which proves the most just how much of an influence the Brazilian has had this term since winning a spot back in the side. He’s made 16 appearances in total, and has only been on the losing side three times – and that’s not by accident. Lucas has provided the side with steel, bite, and discipline centrally – which was missing when he wasn’t in the side. In fact, only one player in the top flight (Nathaniel Clyne, rumoured target) has averaged more tackles per match than Lucas.
