cross-posted from: https://mastodon.online/users/hallenbeck/statuses/111293316231491706

I’ve made an updated graphic based on feedback. Thanks to @nooeh@lemmy.world for the critique. Updated graphic here:

https://thelastboyscout.uk/assets/img/son_xg_stats.webp

Is Son one of the best finishers EVER? Let’s look at some data. 👇

We use actual goals minus expected goals (xG) as a proxy for finishing skill. Players who consistently score more than their xG means they are scoring goals other players would miss. Generally, only the most elite goalscorers *consistently* outperform their xG.

And I can find no player who consistently beats Son. It’s astonishing.

Can you find anyone better at elite level?

#COYS #THFC #PremierLeague #MastodonFC****

  • ladel@feddit.uk
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    1 year ago

    The specifics of each company’s algorithm is secret, but the premise of xG itself is well-understood and relatively straightforward: when taking a shot in a certain situation, what is the probability that an average player would score a goal?

    The xG that a player racks up during a game is dependent on other players, but this analysis is about xG performance, i.e. how much better they are at scoring goals than that hypothetical average player. By comparing against a common statistical average player, the external factors about teammates are irrelevant.