Numbers Don't Lie with Dave Davis & Michael Reid | Araujo Must Stay and Liverpool's Fenerbahçe Challenge
Part 2
Dave Davis is joined by Opta's Michael Reid for another episode of Numbers Don't Lie, examining Ronald Araujo's impressive performances, Virgil van Dijk's enduring influence and Liverpool's upcoming Champions League clash with Fenerbahçe.
With Liverpool reportedly holding a €55 million option to make Araujo's move from Barcelona permanent, Dave and Michael explain why keeping the Uruguayan defender should be a priority.
Araujo's defensive statistics underline his importance to Andoni Iraola's side. Having featured in all 14 of Liverpool's matches this season, he ranks second among the Reds for aerial duels won, total duels won and clearances, with only Virgil van Dijk ahead of him.
His versatility at centre-back and right-back has also proved invaluable, particularly during Liverpool's injury problems, prompting Michael to argue that activating the purchase option would represent excellent business.
The conversation then turns to Van Dijk, with both Dave and Michael insisting that the Liverpool captain remains one of the world's finest defenders and deserves a contract extension.
Attention switches to Liverpool's Champions League trip to Fenerbahçe, where the statistics make uncomfortable reading.
Liverpool have won just once in eight away matches against Turkish opposition, losing six, while their last goal in Turkey came courtesy of Dirk Kuyt during Roy Hodgson's time in charge.
In a remarkable twist, Kuyt is now preparing to face Liverpool as Fenerbahçe's interim manager.
Michael also analyses Fenerbahçe's attacking numbers, their counter-attacking threat and why their performances suggest they could be stronger than their league position indicates.
Can Liverpool finally end their difficult run in Turkey, and should the club act quickly to secure Araujo's long-term future?
All this and more on Numbers Don't Lie with Dave Davis and Michael Reid, exclusively on Anfield Index.
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