Welcome to The Radar, where we delve into the crucial statistics and insights behind the Premier League's most pressing stories. This week, we shine a spotlight on Liverpool's vulnerabilities, Leeds' tactical switch, and a player to watch this weekend.
Liverpool's Long Ball Problem
While Mohamed Salah's absence from Liverpool's starting lineup for the second time in four days grabbed the headlines after their 1-1 draw with Sunderland, a more significant issue emerged: Liverpool's struggle against long passes.
Arne Slot's side have faced four of the five highest totals for long passes in individual games this season, with opponents increasingly exploiting this weakness. Sunderland played 73 long passes at Anfield, the third-most in a Premier League game this term, but not an unusual figure for Liverpool to face.
Slot admitted over a month ago that his team had "no answer" to teams going long against them. The statistics back up his concerns. In the 13 Premier League games where opponents have played more than 20% of their passes long, Liverpool's win rate is a mere 30.8%, a stark contrast to their 71.8% win rate in other games.
Sunderland's goalkeeper, Robin Roefs, played 31 of his 53 passes long, the highest total in any game this season for him. One of these long passes led to Sunderland's opening goal, while another in stoppage time should have sealed the victory but for a last-ditch Liverpool block.
Liverpool have faced long passes at a higher rate than any other side in the Premier League this season, with 18.22% of passes directed long against them. This is a significant shift from last season, when only 12.08% of passes against them were long.
Leeds United's Timely Formation Change
As Liverpool grapple with their long ball issues, Leeds United have made a timely tactical switch. Their new formation could pose problems for the Reds, who will be looking to halt a run of just two wins in their last nine Premier League games.
Leeds' change in formation has coincided with an improvement in results, and they will be hoping to continue this momentum against a vulnerable Liverpool side.
A Player to Watch This Weekend
With Liverpool's struggles against long passes and Leeds' newfound tactical prowess, all eyes will be on how these dynamics play out in their upcoming clash. Be sure to tune in to see if Leeds can exploit Liverpool's weaknesses and secure a crucial three points.
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