Stats reveal whether Liverpool have conceded fewer or more goals with Jordan Henderson as defensive midfielder

Liverpool fans continue to discuss who should be their first choice defensive midfielder.

Emre Can and Jordan Henderson can both play the role. Opinions may differ wildly over who is better suited in that position so what do the stats say?

The Reds have actually conceded fewer goals with when Henderson has not played as a defensive midfielder.

See More: ‘Came on and looked like a spoilt brat’ – Liverpool fans lay into Emre Can following display against Southampton

LFC Games in 2017 (all comps).

When Henderson HAS played (as the DM):

22 games
34 goals conceded
= 1.55 goals conceded per game

When Henderson HASN’T played (as the DM – Lucas or Emre Can have played there instead):

22 games
19 goals conceded
= 0.86 goals conceded per game

— Raj Chohan (@rajsinghchohan) November 22, 2017

Now the fact that Liverpool have conceded fewer goals with Henderson not playing as defensive midfielder does not necessarily mean he is worse in the role.

The quality of opposition and other factors need to be assessed as well.

What the stats do show is that Emre Can is capable of playing defensive midfielder and that the side have actually not performed as bad as has been perceived.

Can has under 12 months remaining on his current deal and will be a free agent at the end of the season unless Liverpool strike an extension agreement.