What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Premier League is witnessing a tactical shift with the resurgence of long throws, a strategy that has seen a significant increase in use this season. Data from Opta indicates that long throws have doubled, reaching an average of 3.03 per game, the highest in five years. This tactic, reminiscent of its use by teams like Stoke City under Tony Pulis, is being adopted by teams seeking to counter high-pressing strategies. The effectiveness of long throws is evident, with 14 goals scored from such plays in the 2024/25 season, prompting more teams to incorporate this approach into their gameplay.
Why It's Important?
The return of long throws as a tactical element in football signifies a shift in strategic thinking among Premier League teams. This development could influence coaching strategies and player training, as teams look to exploit this method to gain a competitive edge. The trend also highlights the evolving nature of football tactics, where traditional methods are being revisited and adapted to modern gameplay. This could lead to a broader reevaluation of other overlooked strategies, impacting how the game is played and coached at various levels.
AI Generated Content
Do you find this article useful?
