Season review: the numbers behind the run
At a glance
Seven games in, the numbers tell a straightforward story: a strong start in the league, an unbeaten home record and a defensive shape that has conceded fewer than two goals per match.
- 18 points from seven league matches
- 17 goals scored — 2.4 per game
- 11 goals conceded — 1.6 per game
- 4 clean sheets
- 63% average possession
- 2nd in the table, three points off the lead
Attacking output
Goals have come from a fairly even spread of sources, which is generally a good sign at this stage. The leading scorer has contributed eight, with three others on five or more. No single area of the pitch has been over-relied upon.
Defensive shape
The centre-backs have been steady, but the standout number is in midfield, where the pressing numbers are among the best in the division. Turnovers in the middle third have led directly to a number of goals this season.
“The table tells you where you are. It does not tell you what is coming. We look at ourselves, not at anyone else.”
What to watch
A run of three fixtures in eight days is the next real test. The Champions League trip on Tuesday is followed immediately by a domestic cup tie at home, and both fall either side of an international break.