The English Right Back Conundrum : A Comparative Analysis
Gareth Southgate has a difficult decision to make for the upcoming tournament. The problem is not lack of talent, but a surplus of it. England have got 4 high quality right backs from the Premier League — Trent Alexander Arnold, Reece James, Kyle Walker and Aaron Wan Bissaka.
The latter hasn’t been included in the final squad. Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid made the final cut instead, but I will not be talking about him here, as I haven’t followed his performances as much. All of them are similar in the fact that they play at the full back position, but possess completely different skill sets.
Comparing Individual Attributes
The figures below represent the individual’s performance with respect to the Premier League defenders. All metrics are taken per 90 minutes, and their percentile value in each attribute is displayed.
Let’s talk about the Chelsea right wing back first. Strong and fast, he has the ideal attributes for a traditional English right back. Data shows that he’s one of the top performing defenders in tackles, blocks and interceptions. On the offensive end, he has dribbled past his counterparts on multiple occasions leading to advantageous situations. The only problem with James is that he hasn’t played as much throughout the course of the season. Half of the Premier League defenders have played more 90 minute games than him.
On the other hand, I believe Trent Alexander Arnold is the best attacking right back in the world right now. He might not have the best defensive statistics, but he could easily make up for it by creating or even scoring goals on the other end. His strengths include crossing and pressing in the final third, but doesn’t rank highly in any of tackles, interceptions or blocks. With proper support from Declan Rice and Jordan Henderson, Trent can thrive at the right back position for the Three Lions. Especially with the aerial prowess and overall finishing quality of Harry Kane, the duo could prove to be lethal.
It was quite surprising to see Southgate not select Aaron Wan Bissaka, given his defensive stats are through the roof. He’s among the top 10% in each of interceptions, tackles, tackles won, matches completed, and the best in the league when it comes to blocks. He has the potential to completely lock the left flank of the opposition, proven by his excellent performances against some the best left wingers namely Mbappe, Neymar, Sterling, Mane, etc. His weakness lies on the other end of the pitch, though. A very poor decision maker, with average passing and crossing skills might have led to Southgate not picking him. But, England would certainly need him in some important games, where the opposition has a lot of attacking flair.
Kyle Walker did get the nod, and is most likely to play at the right center back position, if the manager decides to play a back 3. If that’s not the case, I don’t see Kyle Walker starting, or even in contention for the right back spot, as Trent, James and Trippier are way ahead in the race. His positives include his strength and explosive pace; a rare but powerful combination. It’s difficult to judge him based on numbers this season, as he has played a lot less than his counterparts. But in that time, he has impressed in pressing and winning tackles.
Concluding Thoughts
A tricky situation for Gareth Southgate, but I think he has taken the right decision in selecting 4 right backs, in order to keep the play style versatile. Each right back has his own strengths and weaknesses, and the decision must be made based on the opposition they face. A good problem to have for Southgate, and one I hope he solves considering all factors.