Lewis Baker Scout Report
Scout report highlights Lewis Baker's instrumental role in Stoke City's midfield in the 2023-2024 Championship season. The 29-year-old English Midfielder showcased his well-rounded ability with stellar performance metrics reflecting his successful conversion of chances into goals, ranking within the top 20% of his peers. His chance creation, ball retention, and goal efficiency rank high, signifying his aptitude in constructing attacking opportunities and maintaining control of the ball. Yet, he's also a menace in the air, winning a lion's share of aerial duels, placing him in the top 10%.
On the downside, his low ball recovery percentile raises concerns about his defensive contributions; his game lacks consistency in intercepting the ball and winning it back swiftly. Although his progressive carrying rank leaves room for improvement, Baker compensates for it through his goals and expected assists per 90 minutes rating, emphasising his direct attacking tendencies even with lesser touches on the ball.
Occupying the midfield third mostly, with occasional drifts to the attacking third and minimal influence in the defensive third, it's evident that Baker prefers to get his boots dirty at the heat of midfield skirmishes, serving as Stoke City's creative fulcrum. He may need to rein in his aggression, though, as his propensity to foul and attract referees' attention puts him slightly above average on the ill-discipline spectrum.
Overall, his style of play appears well-suited for Championship football. Driving, determined and creative, Baker's trump cards are his chance creation, goal-making and aerial prowess, even though he may be found wanting in the defensive department sometimes.
