The Stat Doctor: Yes, Levein Was Wrong About Commons

When Craig Levein came out and said that there was half a dozen players ahead of Kris Commons for a place in the Scotland squad using the claim that he was basing this on last seasons form.

All of the world turned a nose up at this while sniffing cow dung.

Yes, Commons was poor in 11/12 after his phenomenal 10/11. Injuries and fitness problems hampered him. There were rumours – untrue – that him and Lennon had fell out. His emission from the Scotland squad sparked similar rumours.

Well, it’s not as Levein hasn’t got previous for falling out with his best players.

I compared stats of players I deem the same as Commons. Creative forward thinking players who can play in a number of positions. Midfield, up top or in the hole. In the Scotland squad I feel, Robert Snodgrass, Graham Dorrans, Shaun Maloney and James Morrison are in the same bracket as Commons.

Last season Commons was still top of the assists per minute and shots per game. He had the highest % of shots on target though was woefully let down with the number of these that ended up as goals. Snodgrass was the most impressive last season

This season Commons tops nearly the lot (just behind Morrison in the % shots on target and Maloney in % shots on target that are goals). He scores more often, creates more often and shoots more often.

The fact that Commons wasn’t in the squad in the first place is just baffling.

A forward thinking four of Commons, Morrison (not played in a deep role as has been Leveins want), Maloney and Fletcher should be played against Wales. All four are on form.

Update: The graphic should state Minutes Per Goal and Minutes Per Assist. It doesn’t. But it should.