Liverpool may have discovered a hidden gem in midfielder Alexis Mac Allister. The Argentine has been putting up impressive numbers and showcased his skills once again in the recent victory against Luton. Mac Allister’s performance against Brentford was notable as he had his first shot from inside the penalty area, scoring a goal. This makes him one of only three Liverpool players this season to complete a take-on in the 18-yard box before scoring.

According to Understat, this chance accounted for a significant portion of Mac Allister’s expected goals for the 2023/24 season. The 25-year-old has primarily played in more advanced midfield positions, with limited opportunities in the starting lineup. However, given Liverpool’s ιnjury crisis and the impressive performance of Wataru Endō in the holding role, Mac Allister may receive more chances to play higher up the pitch.

Mac Allister’s statistics show that he excels in certain areas, making him stand out among Liverpool midfielders in the Klopp era. Specifically, he has been exceptional in combined tackles, interceptions, and pressures, adjusted for possession. These defensive metrics are crucial, considering Liverpool’s high possession game.

In terms of combined tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes, Mac Allister ranks among the top players in Europe. Even when considering Liverpool’s recent history, his numbers surpass those of Fabinho, who is known for his defensive abilities. Additionally, Mac Allister’s pressure statistics are impressive, approaching the levels of renowned pressing players like Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota.

While these statistics don’t necessarily prove that Mac Allister is a better defensive midfielder than Fabinho, they indicate that he has been performing at a high level and exceeding expectations in his role. His contribution goes beyond defensive capabilities, making him a valuable asset to the team.