Wolves fans love Joao Gomes, but it’s safe to say we have not yet seen him on top form this season.
It is just one point from the first six Premier League games for Wanderers, who have looked better in the last two games against Everton (in the cup) and Tottenham Hotspur.
The hope is that Wolves will now take confidence going into the game with Brighton, and finally get that first win on the board.
And Vitor Pereira could do with Joao Gomes rediscovering his mojo.
There have been a lot of underperforming players so far this season, and unfortunately Gomes hasn’t really played as well as we know he can.
And there’s a new statistic that he’ll certainly be looking to improve.
Joao Gomes has worst tackle rate in the Premier League
Joao Gomes is best known for his ball-winning ability.
The Brazilian loves nothing more than to get stuck in, and get Wolves back in possession.
In previous seasons, his combativeness and tenacity have really set him apart from other midfielders in the league.
But sadly this season, Gomes has not been quite as effective in his defensive work.
Earlier this term, Gomes was the most dribbled-past player in Europe’s top five leagues which came as a real surprise.
And now, a new statistic has emerged that may further alarm Pereira.
WhoScored data indicates that Gomes has the worst tackle success rate in the Premier League so far (50%). This is only including players to have attempted 20+ tackles.
- READ MORE: Carlo Ancelotti shares why he’s recalled Wolves duo Andre and Joao Gomes into Brazil squad
Joao Gomes will undoubtedly improve
It is surprising to see another worrying statistic like this for Gomes, who is usually one of the best tacklers in the Premier League.
It just hasn’t really happened for him so far, but Wolves fans can bet their bottom dollar on him improving in a big way.
The former Flamengo man is not the type to play poorly for too long – his character simply will not allow that to happen.
Pereira need not have worries about him. He is one player in that squad who cares deeply about the club and he will no doubt do everything he can to improve individually to help the collective effort.