Who Concedes From Where

Goals conceded just tells part of the story about a team’s defensive frailties and attributes. While some teams are great at marking strikers they may be less convincing defending long-range punts from midfield or the towering aerial threat of a lofty centre-back. This research aims to delve deeper into the goals conceded statistics to find out whether defenders, midfielders or strikers are most likely to breach their defences. I’ll also look at who is assisting these goals.

Who is Scoring?

Among the surprising findings are that Manchester City concede more goals from midfielders than strikers. This could bode well for those planning to play Gylfi Sigurdsson this weekend when Swansea visit the Etihad. West Bromich Albion’s ability to keep out opposition strikers is also telling, especially for those contemplating giving the armband to Diego Costa this weekend. Two thirds of their goals are conceded from strikes by midfielders, something Oscar and Eden Hazard owners will be pleased to hear. Swansea, however, are appalling at protecting their goal from strikers. A huge 64% of their goals are scored by opposition strikers, which raises the profile of Sergio Aguero as captain this weekend.

Who Is Assisting?

Strikers have failed to register any assists against West Brom, with midfielders the more likely to create goalscoring chances. Strikers fare better as providers against Swansea, another factor in deciding on whether to captain Costa or Aguero this weekend. This time, the majority of the goals Swansea concede are served up by midfielders.