Game of Numbers #39 – Erling Haaland’s backstep before goals

Manchester City have scored 15 goals in the Premier League's opening 8 matches. Erling Haaland has scored 11 of them. And among many of those goals, a common trend has emerged. I call it - the backstep!

Chloe Kelly has the strongest mental frame in Women’s Football

One of my biggest disappointments of not having a functioning laptop the past few weeks has been my inability to watch the Women’s Euros. But I’ve seen all the highlights, and just about every single time a highlight comes on of the Women’s Euros lately, England’s Chloe Kelly remains a prime fixture. Chloe Kelly, for … Continue reading Chloe Kelly has the strongest mental frame in Women’s Football

A tribute to Diogo Jota

The Portuguese striker netted 34 goals in 85 appearances across all competitions in his first two seasons, developing a knack for finishing off chances in the penalty area. What became perhaps most impressive about Jota's early years at Liverpool was his surprise knack for scoring headed goals.

Why Brian White scores so many goals

The Vancouver Whitecaps have been flying high this year, and the man at the centre of it all has been their leading scorer - Brian White. I break down exactly why Brian White scores so many goals, and what other forwards learning their trade can take away from White's scoring record so far in 2025. Let's dive in!

Toronto FC 0-0 Vancouver Whitecaps – Match Analysis

After a stellar unbeaten run to start the season, the Vancouver Whitecaps have slowed their speed, desperately trying to manage a condensed list of fixtures. It feels as though they're yet to come away from ninety minutes of MLS action without losing a key player to injury, and this match could prove more catastrophic than desired as both Mathias Laborda and Andrés Cubas suffered the same fate. Nevertheless, the Whitecaps have strength within the depth of their team, and that is exactly what we saw as they secured a hard-earned draw against TFC. Here is my match analysis of the Whitecaps' 0-0 draw with Toronto FC, in the form of dissecting the three main stars of the match.

Game of Numbers #38 – Alejandro Garnacho’s intensity & awareness

It's amazing to think that Alejandro Garnacho is only 19 years of age. Sometimes, you can see the rawness in his game. The facets that still need to be carefully developed. But as he ages, let's hope he never loses his tenacity. His hunger for more. His appetite to win at all costs, even when no one else is pulling their weight. He might not have the soaring high stats to back this up, but I truly believe Alejandro Garnacho is one of the players of this season in the Premier League. That's promising for United, who so desperately need something to cling onto for the future. Here is Game of Numbers #38, including what makes Alejandro Garnacho one of the best young players in the Prem.

Game of Numbers #36 – Role Changes for Dejan Kulusevski & Konrad Laimer

One thing is for certain. Spurs have not been the same since injury to James Maddison. Spurs were flying high with no signs of slowing down at the start of the season. But injuries across the squad have since stunted their progress and made for a more difficult second half of the first half to this campaign. Micky van de Ven's been a miss at the back, but Maddison's creative influence has been that missing puzzle piece that's made for a lack of a finishing touch to Tottenham's endeavours. Perhaps not anymore, with Dejan Kulusevski showcasing his potential as a 'Creative Ten'. Here is Game of Numbers #36 - featuring role changes for Konrad Laimer and Dejan Kulusevski.

Game of Numbers #35 – Anthony Gordon’s embodiment of the Newcastle way

Newcastle United have been defined in the Eddie Howe era by energy and intensity, including an all-out press, and fervid counter attacking immediately upon regaining possession. Anthony Gordon perfectly embodies the Newcastle way under Eddie Howe, and has been one of the surprise stars of the 2023-24 season. Many scoffed at Chelsea's interest in the former Everton youngster at the start of last season, particularly the price tag bestowed upon him. But Gordon is proving to be a priceless acquisition for the Magpies this season, bringing his tireless tenacity to the table every game. Here is Game of Numbers #35.