Bloom is a big fan of statistical analysis. And the stats show that strikers are over-valued. We're gonna have to Moneyball it if we want to get any higher in the table because we can't compete financially with the big boys. Moneyball is all about finding value in the face of popular opinion. The popular opinion here is that we MUST sign a striker if we want to improve. I suggest that stats show that this is not true. At least in the case where we have to overpay and not get good value. What we need is to convert those Xg into goals and I think the metrics show that this can be achieved by finding value in improving the team in the other positions to improve our goal haul from the other positions other than striker. This is why Tony Bloom repeatedly refuses to "get is checkbook aaaaaaat" every transfer window with regards to strikers.
It really isn't as simple as Buy Striker = Get Goals. But then we do have some rather simple people on here.
Brilliant post. It does make you wonder if there’s been some kind of moneyball decision or edict from above. I guess they would never discuss this but would be fascinating to know.
Strikers are clearly a very difficult position to recruit for. Anyone who’s any good will be wanted by many clubs who will bid huge money. So our best options are veterans, young unproven talent and players from lesser leagues.
That said I like the model of players like Nunez, Gonzalez. Young exciting forwards forging a reputation. Give them the platform of the PL and if goes well we can sell for enormous profit. The main obstacle appears to be getting them to join.