Stumbling block: Wirtz's and Liverpool’s costly struggles against tight defences | Andrew Beasley

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Liverpool failed to have a shot on target in their 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Sunday, the first time they have drawn this type of blank in a Premier League game at Anfield since records began in 2003-04. While 12 teams have had fewer touches in opposition penalty boxes than Liverpool, only Coventry with 11 have generated fewer big chances this season than Liverpool’s 12.

Everton’s Thierno Barry alone has had 15, while Erling Haaland has also had more than Liverpool with 14.Chart showing penalty box touches and big chances for teams in the 2026-27 Premier LeagueLiverpool have not had this issue in Europe. They have 12 big chances in the Champions League in just three matches.

Only four teams have had more touches in the opposition half or attempted more final third passes than Liverpool this season, but such dominance has not led to higher value chances.Chart showing big chance involvement in the 2026‑27 Premier League for LiverpoolThis is where Florian Wirtz should be making an impression. Most of their big chances in the league have come via corners or open play crosses.