The Premier League’s new beast – Bafetimbi Gomis

Swansea City have once again made a solid start in their 5 Premier League season. They are one of the three unbeaten teams in the league right now with a record of two wins and two draws in their opening four games, sitting fourth overall. One player that has really played a role in their early season success so far is their 30-year-old French striker, Bafétimbi Gomis. He currently is the joint top scorer in the Premier League with four goals in four games, having found the net once in every game that he has played.

He was the main striker for the Swans, following last season’s mid-season departure of Wilfred Bony. Most of his goals came in the latter half of the campaign and this time to reinforce the team, they have brought in former Marseille striker, Andre Ayew. However, it has been Gomis who has been the more impactful as the striker. Despite the two combining well (given that Swansea have had all their Premier League goals from the pair), Gomis is directly responsible for more points for the Swans.

Now, a look into the abilities that Gomis brings. At 184 cms tall, he is a striker who possesses an aerial threat, which adds another dimension to his attack. He is a pretty good finisher, as he has taken 13 shots so far in the premier league, with 7 on target (excess of 50% accuracy) and, 7 shots on target have resulted in 4 goals. Also, he has a good sense of positioning and is able to open up avenues and receive or play a long pass in several games. This really stretches the opposing defences.

Gomis is able to draw a number of fouls with his runs and has suffered four fouls. He has a very good set of work ethics and the mental understanding he seems to have with all the other members of the Swansea attack and midfield, especially with the Icelandic midfield talisman of the team, Siggurdson is commendable. He has also formed a good partnership with Ayew, which will really benefit the Swans if they can maintain their form.

On the downside, Gomis is really prone to be caught by the offside trap and as a striker he will rarely track back deep into the defence unless it’s a set-play defence. He also gives away a lot of silly fouls (although nothing serious for bookings), having committed five fouls this season.

So, Swansea seem to have a solid striking partnership this season and Gomis will look to remain as the focal point for their offensive capabilities. As long as he can maintain his  form, there is no reason for Swansea to not better their 8 place finish.