Stats Analysis – Why Matt Doherty has been a shining star for Wolves
Wolverhampton Wanderers have made a bright start to life in the Premier League this season. The Wolves moved to top-flight action after clinching the Championship in style the last term. Not only were they the top scorers in the league but Nuno Espirito Santo’s men also conceded the least number of goals.
Right-back Matt Doherty played a crucial role for them in the previous campaign. And suffice to say, the Irish defender has picked up right where he left off last season – making a tremendous difference to this Wolves side. He has been superb going forward and has looked like one of their most potent threats.
The defender has made a total of 8 Premier League appearances this season, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists in that time. He has been a major part of the Wolves’ attacking setup as well. (Stats courtesy – Premier League)
The 26-year-old has also looked defensively resilient at the back. He is lively and has shown immense work rate in his performances. In fact, Doherty has flourished as a wing-back in Nuno Espirito Santo’s 3-4-3 formation.
He creates a number of opportunities while going forward, having supplied a total of 19 crosses into the box and engineering 2 big chances in that time – both leading to assists. He has averaged a pass success rate of just 70.5% in the league this season but that’s only due to the number of deliveries he whips into the box.
Not many wing-backs are good in the air but Doherty has proven to be exactly the opposite. He is dominant aerially, winning an average of 5.6 aerial duels per game this season. The defender is extremely calm and composed while in possession and has committed 0 errors leading to a goal so far. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
What makes him such an exciting prospect is his ability to play in a wide number of roles and systems. The Irishman is capable of playing on either side of the defensive flank and can also play as a right midfielder. Doherty has been defensively solid as well, playing a big role in helping the Wolves concede just 6 goals and keeping a total of 4 clean sheets.
The 26-year-old is one of the most experienced players in this Wolves side, having joined them 8 years ago. He will definitely play a mammoth role as the newcomers aim to establish themselves in the Premier League.