List Of Worst Finishers In The English Premier League This Season So Far
In the world of football, goals are the ultimate currency. Fans cheer when their favourite players find the back of the net, and they groan when opportunities are squandered. But what do the statistics say about a player’s finishing abilities? Let’s delve into the xG (Expected Goals) metric to analyze how many goals certain footballers should have scored in comparison to their actual goal tally for the 2023/24 season.
10) Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace) – xG: 0.9 | Actual goals: 0
Jordan Ayew, Crystal Palace’s player of the month for August, has shown his prowess in providing assists but struggled in front of goal. With an xG of 0.9, the striker has yet to score a Premier League goal this season, despite taking 12 shots, with only three on target.
9) Matheus Cunha (Wolves) – xG: 1.9 | Actual goals: 1
Matheus Cunha, representing Wolves, has an xG of 1.9, indicating he should have scored more than once. Although he managed to net one against Crystal Palace, he missed crucial opportunities, highlighting the need to improve his finishing.
8) Abdoulaye Doucoure (Everton) – xG: 1.9 | Actual goals: 1
Abdoulaye Doucoure faced criticism for a glaring miss against Fulham on the opening day of the season. Playing a pivotal role as a number 10 for Everton, more is expected from him in terms of goal contribution.
7) Fabio Silva (Wolves) – xG: 1.0 | Actual goals: 0
At just 21 years old, Fabio Silva has the potential to shine. His xG of 1.0 suggests that he should have found the net by now. Confidence may be the key to unlocking his goal-scoring ability.
6) Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – xG: 2.1 | Actual goals: 1
Despite his reputation as a creative midfielder, Bruno Fernandes has struggled to hit the target this season. With an xG of 2.1, the Manchester United player needs to improve his finishing to meet the high expectations of his club.
5) Pedro Neto (Wolves) – xG: 1.2 | Actual goals: 0
Wolves’ Pedro Neto faced a frustrating opening weekend against Manchester United. Despite a strong attacking display, he failed to convert any of his chances, highlighting the importance of clinical finishing.
4) Neal Maupay (Everton) – xG: 1.4 | Actual goals: 0
Neal Maupay’s brief stint on the pitch for Everton was characterized by numerous attempts on goal, with four of them saved. His inability to find the net in just 11 minutes of play led to his loan move to Brentford.
3) Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea) – xG: 1.4 | Actual goals: 0
Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, despite a hefty price tag, has struggled to hit the target. His xG of 1.4 highlights the need for improved finishing, with his only shot on target being a penalty saved by the West Ham goalkeeper.
2) Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa) – xG: 1.8 | Actual goals: 0
Ollie Watkins started the season with a prolific scoring record in European competitions but has failed to find the mark in the Premier League. His missed “Big Chances” have left room for improvement in the league.
1) Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea) – xG: 3.0 | Actual goals: 1
Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea has been a notable culprit when it comes to missed opportunities. Despite an xG of 3.0, suggesting he should have scored more, his inability to convert Big Chances has marred his Chelsea spell.
The Need for Improved Finishing
In the competitive world of football, the xG metric serves as a reminder that even the most talented players can struggle with their finishing. For these ten footballers, the data reveals opportunities to hone their goal-scoring abilities and contribute more effectively to their respective teams in the 2023/24 season. As the season progresses, fans will be eager to see if these players can improve their conversion rates and make a bigger impact on the pitch.