4. He Wins Possession In Key Areas A LOT
Media Image LtdThough stats can be used to sell any argument, Lallana's personal record book from last season includes a number of extremely interesting stats, and not least his impact in the final third of the pitch. As well as being an extremely potent creative force, and weighing in with 10 goals in all competitions, Lallana changed the dynamic of his team when not on the ball. By pressing the opposition and harrying for the ball back when Southampton were not in possession, he was able to add a higher line of defence, and change the make-up of his team, making for a higher base-line to attack from. And with 31 key interceptions in the opposition's half, Lallana was the most effective in the league at breaking down opposition play in that area of the field, which is an invaluable aspect to add to any team's defensive make-up, and which will be key to helping Liverpool sure up a defence last season that shipped way too many goals.