Adrian Clarke looks at key tactical points and players who can be decisive in Matchweek 3.
Player analysis - Gustavo Hamer (Sheff Utd)
Hamer is a difference-maker who will give Sheffield United added belief that they can score goals in the Premier League as they prepare for their first home match of the season on Sunday, with Manchester City the visitors.
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The 26-year-old netted on his debut at Nottingham Forest last week, curling a wonderful effort into the top corner from 19 yards out.
And this was not a one-off from the talented Dutch midfielder.
During three successful seasons with Coventry City, Hamer was renowned for the quality of his long-range shooting.
An impressive 36.8 per cent of his 19 Championship goals for the Sky Blues came from outside the box.
Only four players in the Championship have struck more from 18 yards or further, since he arrived in English football just under three years ago.
Goals from outside the box: Championship since 12 Sept 2020
| Player | Goals |
|---|---|
| Ilias Chair | 9 |
| Joel Piroe | 9 |
| Lewis Baker | 9 |
| Alex Mowatt | 8 |
| Ben Brereton Diaz | 7 |
| Gustavo Hamer | 7 |
| Olivier Ntcham | 7 |
| Viktor Gyokeres | 7 |
Advanced role
Coventry pushed Hamer forward last season, using him as an attacking midfielder rather than an orthodox box-to-box player.
That change paid dividends, with Hamer going on to score 11 times and assisting a further 10.
It is easy to see why Sheff Utd pursued him, after he produced 74 chances and had a hand in 25 goal-creating actions, the most of any player in the Championship.
Hamer attacking stats 22/23
| Statistic | Hamer | Champ. Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Goal creating actions | 25 | 1st |
| Shot creating actions | 181 | 4th |
| Through-balls | 13 | 4th |
| Progressive passes | 279 | 5th |
| Shots | 105 | 6th |
| Key passes | 74 | 8th |
*Stats from Fbref
Technically excellent and owner of a magnificent right foot, Hamer instantly becomes the Blades’ most threatening attacking player in open play and from set-plays.
It was interesting to note that Paul Heckingbottom used Hamer as one of two No 10s, playing to the right of centre in a 3-4-2-1 formation against Forest and that position should suit him at Bramall Lane.
If Man City allow him time to look up from anywhere inside the final third, he is capable of testing goalkeeper Ederson or laying on a chance for a team-mate.
Overly competitive
What sets Hamer apart from other creative players is his fiercely competitive streak out of possession.
When facing teams with world class quality like Man City, he must learn to keep his discipline, which has been an issue in the past.
Hamer received 29 yellow cards and three reds during his time at Coventry.
Hamer fouls & tackles 2022/23
| Statistic | Hamer | Champ. Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Fouls | 69 | 2nd |
| Dribblers tackled | 57 | 3rd |
| Tackles won | 68 | 4th |
| Blocks | 57 | 10th |
*Stats from Fbref
Looking at it positively, Heckingbottom will love Hamer's ball-winning qualities.
He is outstanding at breaking up play and performing with an aggressive nature – and that should help Sheff Utd regain possession inside the opposition half on a more frequent basis this season.
In challenging top-flight fixtures, like Sunday's one with City, the midfielder's ability to contribute on and off the ball is sure to be a tremendous asset.
Hamer's long-range shooting, coupled with his skill and desire make him a threat to any defence.
Also in this series
Part 1: Will Klopp tweak his midfield ahead of stern Newcastle test?
Part 2: How Luton's direct approach can trouble Chelsea
Part 3: How Gross is stepping up to be Brighton's main midfield man