This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
It was one of the biggest transfer sagas of the summer. Wilfried Zaha once again front and centre of conversations linking him with a move away from Crystal Palace, and yet again, the Ivory Coast international was denied. It was suggested the Eagles were looking to command a fee in excess of £100m, and based on his truly horrific performances so far this season, that valuation really does look incredible.
The 27-year-old has played 13 times across all competitions, and has yet to find the back of the net, mustering just two assists. Roy Hodgson has predominantly used him from the right-hand side which arguably completely negates his ability to cut inside onto his stronger foot from the opposite flank. But the key to unlocking the Zaha that Palace fans have come to see at Selhurst Park, is perhaps moving him into the central position as a number nine.
Against Liverpool on Saturday afternoon, despite scoring the equaliser for the Eagles, the 27-year-old once again looked completely devoid of any real service. As per Sofascore, he touched the ball just 49 times, with goalkeeper Vicente Guaita himself only registering three fewer touches than that. He did however complete his three attempted dribbles, and that provides some evidence that he is not far off from being a real threat once more.
And as per Understat, moving him into the striker role may be the trick to kick-starting his season. In the time he has played up front, he has an expected goals per game ratio of 0.27 – the highest of any position he has played in the Premier League. And, just as significantly, his expected assists per game ratio is at 0.17 – the second-highest of any position.
If Hodgson uses him further infield and closer to the opposition box, Zaha will undoubtedly find more chances coming his way. And particularly in games where Palace are relying on the counter-attack, having him high up the pitch can allow the Ivorian to simply concentrate on bringing attacking rewards to his side, rather than having to focus on tracking back.
It’s a tactical switch that Hodgson should consider in order to fully unleash his star man’s capabilities.