The Premier League is back this weekend after the first round of European group stage fixtures. Five games in, and there have already been several excellent matches, shock results, and standout performers — one of them being Finnish international, Teemu Pukki.
Norwich City signed Pukki in 2018 from the Danish club Brøndby, and he quickly made his mark in the Championship. Scoring 30 goals in 46 appearances, he was named the EFL Championships player of the season, as well as Norwich Citys player of the season. His form not only helped Norwich get promoted to the Premier League but enabled them to become champions of the EFL, scoring 32% of the teams goals.
And although the jump from the Championship to the Premier League can be challenging for players, Pukki continued his fantastic form, having eight-goal involvements in the first five game weeks. Having scored two goals for his country this international break, Pukki is playing some of the best football of his career, and he is currently irreplaceable for Norwich City.
This tactical analysis will be a scout report on Pukkis playstyle, tactics, and his importance to Norwichs chances of Premier League survival this year.
Goal involvements
The main asset Pukki brings to Norwich City is goals, goals, and more goals. He scores them, assists them, and creates them. The top scorer in the EFL Championship last year, as well as only being one goal off the top scorer in the Premier League this year, it is no secret that Pukki is Norwich Citys most reliable, and most consistent in terms of goals.
Pukki often plays up top as a lone striker in a 4-2-3-1 formation for the Canaries. As a lone striker, he has several strengths that allow him to create multiple chances for himself and his teammates.
As well as being an excellent shooter and dribbler, one of Pukkis strengths is receiving the ball in the box. When a teammate passes him the ball, he always finds a way to time his run, and shield the ball away from defenders, ensuring that he has the ball in the penalty box.
Pukki has great positioning, and when Norwich are in possession, hell often be on the shoulder of the last centre-back, remaining just onside. This is a perfect setup for him to get a through ball into the final third, and try and get a shot in on target or set up another attacking teammate.
Chelsea, as one of the top six sides, unsurprisingly play a high line, which makes it easier for Pukki to make runs in behind. It is much harder for players to play this way against low block sides. What makes Pukki such a good player is his versatility. His ability shoot from a distance inside the box makes him a great asset against teams that will attempt to limit Norwichs forward play.
