A statistical metric that measures how many goals a player scores per 90 minutes of playing time. Unlike raw goal totals, G/90 normalises for minutes played, offering a clearer view of a striker's efficiency regardless of whether they start matches or come off the bench. For Liverpool's attacking unit, this metric is particularly useful in assessing rotation options and impact substitutes under Arne Slot's system, where squad depth often dictates match outcomes.
Expected Goals per 90 (xG/90)
An advanced metric estimating the quality of chances a striker receives per 90 minutes. It evaluates shot locations, assist types, and defensive pressure. When a Liverpool forward's actual G/90 exceeds their xG/90, it indicates clinical finishing—a trait valued in high-stakes Premier League and Champions League fixtures. Slot's tactical setup often creates high-xG chances for central strikers, making this a key performance indicator.
Shot Conversion Rate
The percentage of shots taken that result in goals. For Liverpool strikers, a high conversion rate suggests efficiency in front of goal, particularly in tight matches where chances are limited. This metric is influenced by shot placement, composure, and the quality of defensive opposition. Under Slot, forwards are encouraged to shoot from high-probability areas, which can elevate conversion rates across the squad.
Minutes per Goal
The average number of minutes a player needs to score one goal. Lower values indicate greater scoring frequency. For a Liverpool striker competing for minutes in a deep squad, this metric highlights their ability to make the most of limited game time. It is especially relevant for young talents like Ben Doak or academy graduates transitioning to first-team responsibilities.
Non-Penalty Goals per 90 (NPG/90)
Excludes penalty kicks to focus on open-play and set-piece contributions. Since penalties are often taken by designated takers like Mohamed Salah, NPG/90 provides a fairer comparison of outfield strikers' finishing ability. For Liverpool's centre-forwards, this metric reveals their effectiveness in build-up play and movement without relying on spot-kicks.
Expected Assists per 90 (xA/90)
Measures the likelihood that a pass becomes a goal assist, based on the quality of the chance created. For Liverpool's wide forwards or false nines, xA/90 captures their creative output. Under Slot, who emphasises positional interchanges, a striker with high xA/90 can be as valuable as a pure goalscorer, particularly when linking with midfield runners.
Progressive Passes per 90
Passes that move the ball significantly towards the opponent's goal. For Liverpool strikers, this metric reflects their involvement in build-up play and ability to advance attacks beyond mere finishing. A forward ranking high in progressive passes may drop deep to collect the ball, creating space for wingers like Luis Díaz or Cody Gakpo to exploit.
Shot-Creating Actions per 90 (SCA/90)
Offensive actions—passes, dribbles, or fouls won—that lead directly to a shot. This stat contextualises a striker's overall contribution beyond goals. In Slot's system, where forwards press aggressively and link play, SCA/90 highlights players who create opportunities for teammates, even when not scoring themselves.
Goal Involvement per 90
The sum of goals and assists per 90 minutes. It offers a holistic view of a striker's offensive output. For Liverpool, where goals are often shared among forwards, a high goal involvement rate indicates a player's centrality to the attack. This metric is particularly telling for players like Darwin Núñez, whose work rate and link-up play may not always reflect in raw goal tallies.
Big Chances Missed per 90
Counts clear scoring opportunities not converted. While raw totals can be misleading, per-90 normalisation reveals whether a striker's finishing consistency is a concern. For Liverpool forwards, high big chances missed rates may prompt tactical adjustments or rotation, especially in high-pressure league matches.
Touches in the Opposition Box per 90
Measures how often a striker receives the ball inside the penalty area. High values indicate strong positioning and movement. Under Slot, who prioritises vertical passing and quick transitions, Liverpool strikers with frequent box touches are more likely to convert chances. This metric is a proxy for a forward's ability to find dangerous spaces.
Dribbles Completed per 90
Successful take-ons per 90 minutes. For Liverpool's agile forwards, dribbling ability can unlock defences in tight spaces. While not a primary metric for traditional strikers, it matters for wide forwards or false nines who cut inside. Slot's tactical flexibility may see forwards with high dribble rates used in hybrid roles.
Aerial Duels Won per 90
Success rate in aerial contests. For a team like Liverpool, which often faces deep-lying defences, aerial ability can be a secondary attacking threat. Strikers with strong aerial stats are valuable for set-piece routines and long-ball outlets, though Slot's preference for ground-based play may reduce the emphasis on this metric.
Pressures per 90
Defensive actions where a player pressures an opponent in possession. Liverpool's high-intensity system demands forwards lead the press. A striker with high pressures per 90 contributes to regaining possession in advanced areas, directly creating scoring chances. This metric separates Slot's preferred forwards from those less suited to the system.
Tackles in the Final Third per 90
Defensive interventions in the attacking third. For Liverpool, where counter-pressing is integral, strikers who win tackles high up the pitch can initiate quick transitions. This stat is especially relevant for younger players or those competing for roles in Slot's pressing scheme.
Passing Accuracy per 90
The percentage of successful passes. While not a primary striker stat, it reflects a forward's ability to retain possession and link play. In Slot's possession-based phases, a striker with high passing accuracy helps maintain attacking fluidity, particularly when combining with midfielders like Alexis Mac Allister or Dominik Szoboszlai.
Through Balls per 90
Passes that split defensive lines to reach a teammate in behind. For Liverpool's pacey forwards, through balls are a key attacking weapon. A striker with high through-ball rates may operate as a second striker or false nine, creating chances for wide runners.
Key Passes per 90
Passes that lead directly to a shot, excluding assists. This metric captures a striker's creative influence even when they don't get the final pass. For Liverpool's front line, key passes per 90 can highlight players who are effective in build-up but less prolific as finishers.
Offsides per 90
Times a player is caught offside per 90 minutes. While being offside indicates aggressive movement, high rates may signal poor timing or tactical discipline. Under Slot, who values intelligent runs, Liverpool strikers with low offside rates are likely better integrated into the system.
Fouls Won per 90
Number of fouls drawn per 90 minutes. For Liverpool, winning fouls in dangerous areas can lead to set-piece opportunities or penalties. Strikers who draw fouls frequently also disrupt opposition defensive rhythm, a subtle but valuable contribution.
Substitution Impact Minutes
Minutes played as a substitute and subsequent G/90 in those appearances. This metric is crucial for assessing squad depth. Liverpool's bench options, such as Cody Gakpo or Diogo Jota, often have different efficiency rates when starting versus coming on late. High substitution impact minutes suggest a player thrives against tired defences.
Form-Based Efficiency Trends
How a striker's G/90 fluctuates over a season. Form can be influenced by fixture congestion, injuries, or tactical adjustments. For Liverpool, monitoring these trends helps manage rotation and predict performance in key runs. Slot's data-driven approach may use these trends to optimise line-ups.
What to Check When Evaluating G/90
Sample Size: A few appearances can skew G/90. Look for at least 900 minutes of playing time for reliable comparisons.
Context of Minutes: Early-season form, injury returns, or opposition strength all affect efficiency. Compare against league averages.
Tactical Role: A striker playing as a false nine may have lower G/90 but higher creative stats. Evaluate alongside xA/90 and key passes.
Team Performance: Liverpool's overall attacking output influences individual metrics. A striker's G/90 in a struggling side may not reflect their ability.
Age and Development: Young players often have volatile G/90. Consider their trajectory and minutes in academy or lower-league loans.
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