Statistical analysis – Fulham’s £25m superstar is setting the Premier League alight with his displays

Why Seri’s performances suggest he can be influential at Fulham this season

Fulham have had an indifferent start to the season but they restored some positivity by beating Burnley 4-2 last Sunday and grabbing a point against Brighton. They showed what kind of football will be on display at Craven Cottage in the first two games as well, only to miss a few chances and being defensively weak.

However, against the Clarets, the intent was clear from Slavisa Jokanovic’s men. They played with high-intensity, passing was crisp and direct through balls were fed for the attackers to create chances from. The midfield, led by a diminutive Jean Michael Seri, was on top of almost everything.

The Ivorian was bought this summer, for a club-record fee of £25m and he has already stamped his authority in the team. A wonder strike to open the scoring against Burnley was just an example as to how he can really influence every phase of Fulham’s play.

Seri is a conducter of an orchestra, at the centre, directing everything.

Here we take a look at some of his stats for the season thus far:

Stats and tactical analysis – Jean Michael Seri

Pass Accuracy – 90.6%

It is an astonishing number given the fact that Premier League games are mostly congested in central areas of the pitch. And from there, Seri has accomplished a pass accuracy of over 90%. This is just an indication of how the 27-year-old can control the tempo of the game on his own, as he doesn’t waste possession and also fend people off in tight areas.

Key Pass rate – 1 per game

This stat signals that Seri is just not a sideways passer. He has the eye to needle through balls for attackers, who can then create chances.

Tackle and Interception rate – 2.3 and 2.3 per game respectively

For a midfield player in the Premier League, things you do off the ball is equally important. The Ivorian has adapted to this trade with aplomb. This tackle and interception rate is right up there with some of the best in the business.

He has made 18 recoveries of lost possession, which is quite good given the fact that Fulham play open football, where ball recovery in midfield is vital.

The above image shows Seri’s heat-map against Burnley – an epitome of a complete midfield player controlling the general play of the team.

The Cottagers have got a coup for such a low price. They just need to make sure they make correct use of the player, and rewards will be there to see over the course of the season.