Thread by @_reecechambers, Full-backs - outside the elite In the first of several ‘outside the [...]

Full-backs - outside the elite

In the first of several ‘outside the elite’ analysis threads, I use data to find the best full-backs outside of the PL ‘big 6’ and other UCL 19/20 clubs from the top 5 EU leagues.

Graphs, ones to watch and player radars

Full-backs - outside the elite In the first of several ‘outside the elite’ analysis threads, I use data to find the best full-backs outside of the PL ‘big 6’ and other UCL 19/20 clubs from the top 5 EU leagues.Graphs, ones to watch and player radars

Which full-backs are most frequently involved in defence?

To start, let’s find full-backs that are often involved in defensive actions and perform them at a high success rate. Bear in mind that defensive activity will be based on the team’s style of play.

Which full-backs are most frequently involved in attack?

Here we find full-backs that are frequently involved from an attacking point of view. This allows us to identify full-backs that may feature in later graphs looking at their end product.

Finding the most progressive full-backs

This graph finds full-backs who either carry the ball considerably more than others or look to progress the ball through passing.

Finding the most progressive full-backs This graph finds full-backs who either carry the ball considerably more than others or look to progress the ball through passing.

Who frequently moves the ball into attacking positions?

This graph looks at how full-backs differ in terms of contributing to attacking areas of the pitch. Much of this is influenced by a team’s quality/formation, so the following graph should also be referenced.

Full-back end product

The role of a modern full-back dictates that they provide a creative outlet. Assists can be a misleading way of measuring output, so expected assists and key passes create a fairer picture of a full-back’s ability.

Full-back end product The role of a modern full-back dictates that they provide a creative outlet. Assists can be a misleading way of measuring output, so expected assists and key passes create a fairer picture of a full-back’s ability.

Standout performers

A number of players feature high up in most graphs which shows them to be consistent and well-rounded. My top three picks

1. Ricardo Pereira (26)

The Leicester City right-back ranks highly in pretty much every metric. His ability to work tirelessly up and down the right flank as well as provide a creative outlet shows him to be a top choice.

2. Theo Hernández (22)

AC Milan’s left-back has been heavily linked with a move to a top european side and there’s good reason for it. His ability on the ball and quality going forward would make him a worthy addition.

3. Lucas Digne (26)

The Frenchman ranks highly across all creative metrics as well as having a fine balance between defence and attack. A great creative option at left-back.

Ones to watch

Away from the bigger names, there are players that could be on their way to joining bigger clubs in the near future. Here, I've picked out three ones to watch

1. Luca Pellegrini (21)

The on-loan Juventus full-back has developed considerably at Caligari this season and could make his way into Sarri’s team next season. One to watch in the coming months and years.

2. Max Aarons (20)

The young right-back has excelled in a struggling Norwich team this season and could be set for a move this summer. His xA shows just how much creativity it could bring to a better performing side.

3. Faitout Maouassa (21)

Maouassa doesn’t top many metrics, but he’s a player that really interests me for a number of reasons. Many talents have come out of Rennes in recent years and, with just one year left on his contract, who knows where he could end up.