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Numbers highlight quiet yet effective role Liverpool ace plays in Arne Slot’s system

Originally posted on The Kop Times | By Siddharth Juyal | Last updated Dec 27, 2024 4:05 PM ET

Fotmob stats show how Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister continued to dominate the midfield as the Reds beat Leicester City. Mac Allister has formed a formidable and regular double-pivot partnership with defensive midfielder Ryan Gravenberch under Arne Slot this season.

The Reds beat Leicester 3-1 in the Boxing Day game at Anfield despite the visitors securing a surprise early lead. Liverpool dominated the rest of the home game, leaving no room for the Foxes to find any meaningful counter-attacking opportunity.

Mac Allister has played a pivotal role for Liverpool since joining the club from Brighton in the summer of 2023. The Argentina international’s ability to dictate the game and find teammates in key areas plays a crucial role for Liverpool.

The World Cup winner played as a number six in his first season under the legendary former manager Jurgen Klopp. However, Slot has used him in a more natural number eight role alongside Gravenberch under a new tactical playing style.

The new style allows Liverpool to dictate the game and use the ball more efficiently, balancing their offence and defence. The midfield plays a crucial role in this aspect, securing the spaces and circulating the ball according to the game.

According to Fotmob, Mac Allister enjoyed 90% passing accuracy (49 passes) from 70 touches while providing two assists for Liverpool. The 26-year-old made five passes into the final third while having three touches in the opposition box during the game.

Mac Allister won eight duels and forced two fouls out of Leicester while making five recoveries and one crucial interception. The Argentina international contributed to 11 defensive actions during the game while winning one out of five tackles for Liverpool.

Mac Allister’s “dirty work” in midfield negated Leicester’s progress in the early phases before they could do anything threatening. The 26-year-old’s contributions usually go under the radar by the media while his teammates receive all the plaudits but the Kopites appreciate Mac Allister and acknowledge his importance.

This article first appeared on The Kop Times and was syndicated with permission.

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