Since his Premier League debut on 4 October, Senne Lammens has emerged as one of the most decisive goalkeepers in the league — not through reputation, but through data.
According to Opta’s expected goals on target conceded model (xGOT conceded), the Belgian goalkeeper has prevented 5.5 more goals than the average Premier League keeper based on the quality of shots on target he has faced.
No other goalkeeper in the league has matched that figure over the same period.

A STATISTICAL IMPACT BEYOND THE EYE TEST

Traditional goalkeeper analysis often relies on clean sheets or save percentage.
However, xGOT conceded measures something more precise:
the quality of shots that are actually on target and how many goals a goalkeeper should realistically concede from them.

Lammens’ +5.5 differential means he has consistently saved shots that would normally result in goals.

Image crédit Opta Analyst 

This metric highlights not only reflexes, but positioning, decision-making and shot-stopping efficiency under pressure.

A KEY FACTOR IN UNITED’S DEFENSIVE STABILITY

Since his introduction into the starting XI, Manchester United’s defensive output has shown greater resilience in high-pressure moments.

While defensive structure plays a role, the data indicates that Lammens has directly protected his team from conceding multiple high-quality chances.

In matches where United allowed dangerous shots on target, the Belgian’s interventions preserved results and maintained competitive momentum.

THE VALUE OF GOALKEEPING IN MODERN PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS

Goalkeeper influence is often underestimated in performance models focused on possession and chance creation.

Yet metrics such as xGOT conceded reveal how a high-performing goalkeeper can add tangible points over the course of a season.

A differential of +5.5 goals prevented represents a significant competitive advantage in a tightly contested league.

A PROFILE BUILT ON EFFICIENCY

Since 4 October, no Premier League goalkeeper has produced a higher positive impact relative to shot quality faced.

Rather than relying on volume of saves alone, Lammens’ numbers show efficiency against high-value chances — the most difficult scenario for any goalkeeper.

This type of performance typically correlates with improved team results, particularly in matches decided by narrow margins.

DATA CONFIRMS A RISING INFLUENCE

Beyond narrative and perception, the Opta model places Senne Lammens at the top of the league in terms of goals prevented relative to shot quality.

In a competition where marginal gains define outcomes, such a statistical edge can reshape defensive performance and overall team stability.

For Manchester United, the data suggests that their goalkeeper has not only filled a role — he has created a measurable advantage.

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