David Brooks – Stats and performance analysis
Bournemouth have made a superb start to their season under Eddie Howe this year, with the Cherries picking up a total of 16 points from their opening 8 games of the season. They have looked splendid going forward and have a number of potent threats in their team.
One of those who has recently emerged into the squad is youngster David Brooks. After having come through the youth ranks of Sheffield United, Brooks made the move to Bournemouth this season.
According to the BBC, Bournemouth paid £10million for his services and it could rise as high as £11.5million after add-ons. He has penned a four-year deal which should keep the midfielder at the Vitality stadium until 2022.
The 21-year-old has made 7 appearances for Eddie Howe’s side in the league this season and has steadily improved in his display. He has quickly adapted to the demands of the Premier League and is now proving to be one of the driving forces in Bournemouth’s attack.
The youngster has been generally deployed as a right midfielder but he is also capable of playing as a central attacking midfielder. He has already picked up 2 goals this season and is very active in front of the goal, averaging at least 2 shots per game this season.
Brooks possesses impressive ability and control on the ball. His directness makes it very hard for the defenders to stick a leg in and he is also excellent at creating chances in the final third.
The former Sheffield United midfielder has averaged a pass success rate of 71.2% in the Premier League and though that’s not an appealing figure, he seems to be rapidly rising under Eddie Howe. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
He is also an excellent distributor in the middle of the park and possesses a strong creative mind that allows him to pick the perfect pass. Eddie Howe also has a new set-piece specialist in his ranks as Brooks is known for his dead-ball ability.
What makes him an even more enticing option is the midfielder’s willingness to track back and support the defence. The 21-year-old has made a total of 11 tackles, averaging an impressive 82% tackle success rate in the league so far.
As the season goes on, he will definitely play a key role for Eddie Howe’s Cherries. The manager is known for his ability to nurture and develop young talents in the squad. Brooks will surely prove to be a gem of a midfielder in no time.