Finding the best full-backs in Belgian Pro League – data analysis

This third part of the finding the best players in the Belgian Pro League series will analyze full-backs. This data analysis includes full-backs, but also wing-backs who played a minimum of 600 minutes in the league this season. In the end, this analysis will produce a list of best full-backs in the league who have the potential to make a step forward in their career.

Hopefully, we will find players who are good at playing on both ends of the pitch. In recent years, full-backs are often connected with team success on the field. Looking at players such as Liverpools full-back duo, Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, their impact on the flanks with their runs and crosses is clear. Every team now looks for similar type of players. 

Progressive runs and passes 

The first section of this data analysis consists of the players ability to make progressions down the field either with a pass or a run. Progressive runs are a good indicator of whether a full-back can carry the ball into more advanced areas. Progressive passes can give us an idea of how often player tries advanced solutions. 

On the graph above we can see a few interesting players. We will pick those who are above average in both statistics and could be amongst the best in other sections.

Clinton Mata is right-back playing for Club Brugge. The Angolan defender has played as a right centre back in a defensive trio for half of his appearances. He is averaging 14.07 progressive passes per 90 which makes him the best in that metric compared to the other full-backs. Clinton Mata is delivering 2.41 progressive runs per 90 as well.

Mërg