Post

Michael Kayode has a very interesting carrying repertoire. In particular, he can suddenly decide to go on an adventure across the field (see the long red lines below). This sends me into my frequent spiral about what matters and what is measurable in football 1/

This carry vs Liverpool is a good example. Kayode receives near the touchline in a surrounded position The horizontal run allows him to go unchallenged as the opposition is more concerned with retaining shape but allowing Kayode central space and diagonal opportunity 2/

This encourages Kayode to continue the run and ends up in a very similar situation - again he goes unchallenged and the carry results in a successful end product via pass to the winger 3/

It is a brilliant way to use the horizontal - to find the diagonal - to get a vertical result (more on that here spielverlagerung.com/2025/06/12/t.... This results in the unique carrying map above and data profile make-up below - I don't think there are many similar full-backs 4/

But for me, it is more interesting because I just can't shake the idea that there is something slightly beyond our current data e.g. measuring just the pure increase in threat location, the resulting xG values, etc. How do we capture the value of what Kayode does here? 5/

Kayode's carry causes: (1) a resulting disruption to the opposition; (2) that gives Brentford the ability to better control the sequence of play; (3) allowing them to make higher quality decisions; (4) that increase goal probability. 6/