Everton are considering a move for Jesse Lingard as a possible replacement for Richarlison but how does the free agent actually shape up next to the Brazilian and indeed the other players in his position in the Premier League? Lingard, who the ECHO understands is one of several options being considered, ticks several boxes for the Blues given that he is a proven Premier League performer and would represent a modest financial outlay given that he would not command a transfer fee.
While the former Manchester United man – who had been with the Red Devils since the age of seven until his contract expired overnight – has a wealth of experience in English top flight football, he turns 30 before the year is out which is an advanced age for an attacking midfielder. Examining his statistics from the 2021/22 season on Comparisonator showed that he stood out in two particular areas when up against other Premier League players operating in his position.
Lingard made more ball recoveries in the opponents’ half (intercepting loose possession) than anyone else with 1.36 per 90 minutes. Everton’s Anthony Gordon was next best on 1.31 followed by Tariq Lamptey of Brighton & Hove Albion on 1.29. When it comes to shots on target, only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (1.91) had more than Lingard on 1.82 with Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus next up on 1.51.
