Scoring more goals rather than conceding fewer seems to be the best way to avoid relegation – with one notable exception
By Chris Evans for The Set Pieces
Club that are seemingly slipping towards relegation love nothing more than a shiny new manager to rejuvenate their fortunes. Three of the bottom four sides in the Premier League have welcomed a new manager into their dugout this season. And it’s already clear they have different priorities.
After taking over at Watford, Claudio Ranieri initially appeared to favour scoring goals over defensive frugality, while Dean Smith is grappling with problems at both ends for Norwich after looking as if he was shoring things up at the back. As for Eddie Howe, success for him will probably be dictated by Newcastle’s performance in the January transfer market. But what does recent Premier League history suggest is the area a new manager should address to give his side the best chance of survival? The stats suggest scoring goals is the key.