It is fair to say that the Shrimps have not had a rampaging start to the 22/23 season. Having only collected 3 points from 6 league games and are yet to secure a win, Morecambe will have to face the music soon that an impressive upturn in form will be needed should this side stay up. The results are a fair representation of the performances that have been displayed this campaign. Far too often this side have been second best in just about every game played and even the most ardent football optimists will accept that Morecambe have not deserved any more than they have achieved so far in the league.
This being said, there is one player who has impressed on a consistent basis throughout the start of the season ever since his debut appearance against Shrewsbury on the opening day of the season. Jake Taylor has proven himself a worthy League One player and has shown why Morecambe were willing to pay an undisclosed fee for the midfielder. Having started all but one game since Shrewsbury, it is clear Derek Adams is a fan of the midfielder and his stats may show you why.
Playing in the centre of the park, Taylor has impressed with both his progressive and defensive actions. Going forward, Jake Taylor has created chances through a variety of ways; he has had the third most crosses completed of any Morecambe player and the second most shots, proving he is not afraid to have attempts on goal. On top of this, his ball progression is shown by the fact he has drawn the most fouls of any Morecambe player this season.
His stats are just a representation of how he has played this season and watching him in any game will give you context behind these numbers. On top of the general positive play, Taylor has shown consistency on a level no other player has in the Shrimps’ side so far this campaign. An average SofaScore rating of 6.78 makes him Morecambe’s fourth best for average rating in League One. Tidy on the ball and determined to win it back when out of possession, Taylor has proved repeatedly that he is no way out of his depth at this level.
One of the more outstanding qualities of Jake Taylor’s game is the tenacity and determination shown off the ball. When out of possession, the application of the press is measured but shows desire and persistence when triggered. The mental attributes on show are what characterising a perfect player under Derek Adams. This also shows why Morecambe were willing to pay for the young midfielder.
Whilst the impact of Jake Taylor’s transfer has shown evident signs of being one of the best for the club’s long term future; the immediate short-term form needs addressing. No wins in 6 league games and only one goal scored paints a picture of a team that will struggle to fight off relegation, no matter the individual performances on show.