James Lawrence

In this scout report of James Lawrence, the seasoned centre-back for Almere City, his playing style is a masterclass in defensive reliability. At 32, Lawrence commands the backline with a focus on ball recovery and retention, showcasing a knack for breaking up play and maintaining possession under pressure. While his ability in 1v1 and penalty area defending is steady, it’s his exceptional skill in progressive carrying that truly sets him apart—often seen driving the ball forward to initiate attacks, a somewhat unusual yet invaluable trait for a defender. Lawrence’s progressive passing isn't quite as pronounced, yet his defensive prowess compensates, offering a solid barrier against opposition threats. Although not a primary goal threat, his chance creation hints at an eye for contributing to forward play when the opportunity arises. Overall, his style of play is a study in combining defensive solidity with the capacity to support transitions, a blend that keeps Almere City's defensive stats respectable.