Despite having conceded 12 goals in their previous four games in all competitions, Everton have had a strong defensive unit this season while Liverpool’s makeshift backline has caused them trouble.
According to stats by WyScout, Everton have the fifth-best record of shots blocked per 90 minutes [3.5] in the Premier League this season, sitting behind only Burnley, Leeds United, Newcastle and Aston Villa – four sides who invite pressure.
Liverpool meanwhile pale in comparison, ranking lowest of all 20 Premier League clubs [1.16], indicating that their makeshift defensive unit isn’t as efficient at preventing attempts on goal as the club might like.
Liverpool’s inconsistent defence has left goalkeeper Alisson with more to do this season, with the Brazilian’s weaknesses having shone through in recent weeks.
Though Jordan Pickford has often been maligned as Everton’s first-choice between the sticks, the England international concedes only slightly more goals per 90 minutes [1.28] than Alisson does [1.02], despite the fact that he faces significantly more attempts on goal per 90 minutes [3.98] than Alisson [3.03].
In fact, Alisson’s prevented goals per 90 minutes are also lower [-0.07] than would be expected of a top-class goalkeeper, although Pickford does have worse figures [-018] in that department.
All this is to say that, while Alisson is an undeniably talented shot-stopper, the stats prove that there are chinks in the former Roma man’s armour that Everton can exploit.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin back fit and ready to feature against the Reds, Everton pose a significant goal threat for Liverpool and with Alisson not playing on top form the Blues should make their opportunity count.
In other Everton news, Josh King has conceded that he has a point to prove after signing for the Blues from Bournemouth in the winter transfer window.