Liverpool’s Midfielder Tyler Morton Ranks Among the World’s Best at Handling Pressure
When Jurgen Klopp took charge of Liverpool almost nine years ago, he introduced the concept of pressing as a key component of his team’s playing style. The ability to quickly win back possession became synonymous with the club, and fans became familiar with the term “gegenpressing” or counterpressing. However, as time has passed, the importance of retaining possession under pressure has also become evident. One player who excels in this aspect is Tyler Morton, a young midfielder currently out on loan.
In a study conducted by the CIES Observatory, which ranked the most press-resistant midfielders in the top 28 leagues worldwide, Morton surpassed all other Liverpool players. With a remarkable rate of 86.9 percent ball retention under high pressure, Morton’s performance places him at the 74th spot globally. Although he may not be among the top five, which includes players such as Darlington Nagbe, Rodri, Frenkie de Jong, Toni Kroos, and Granit Xhaka, the margin between Morton and these elite performers is relatively slim.
What makes Morton’s achievement even more impressive is his age. At just 21 years old, he is the third-youngest player in the top 100. Only Paris Saint-Germain’s Warren Zaire-Emery and Barcelona’s Gavi rank higher in terms of press resistance. It is clear that Morton possesses a maturity beyond his years when it comes to handling pressure on the pitch.
Interestingly, no other Liverpool player made it into the top 100 of the study. However, it is worth noting that the list includes players from various leagues worldwide, including MLS and leagues in Mexico, Sweden, Ukraine, Denmark, Croatia, and Switzerland. Despite this, Morton’s achievement stands out as a testament to his abilities.
Morton’s talent has not gone unnoticed by Liverpool’s management. He signed a new long-term contract in January while impressing on loan at Blackburn. Now, with his loan spell at Hull, it seems that he is taking another step forward in his development. There is a sense that Liverpool sees him as a potential first-team player in the future.
The question of whether Morton’s prospects will change after Klopp’s departure remains uncertain. However, it is certain that whoever takes over as the manager will be eager to monitor Morton’s progress closely. His ability to retain possession under pressure is an invaluable asset that can greatly benefit Liverpool’s playing style.
In conclusion, Tyler Morton’s inclusion among the world’s best press-resistant midfielders is a remarkable achievement for the young Liverpool player. His ability to retain possession under pressure sets him apart from his peers and makes him an asset to any team. Whether he ultimately becomes a regular in Liverpool’s first team or not, Morton’s talent and potential are undeniable, and his progress will undoubtedly be closely monitored by the club’s management.