I completely agree with Sturridge’s point from last week’s discussion after the Liverpool vs. Chelsea game. He explained how the game has shifted, with wide forwards now becoming the primary goal threats. Instead of wingers looking to get to the byline and cross for a central striker, we’re seeing more players cutting inside to shoot or link up with the striker. This shift has also given rise to more complete strikers—those who contribute more to build-up play than classic goal poachers of the past, though they may not be as prolific.
Of course, much of this depends on a team’s style. Last season, we stil had players like Haaland, Isak, Watkins, Mateta, and Solanke—all traditional strikers—made the top scorers' list, but half of the top 10 were filled by wide forwards or wingers.
Back in the day, this trend was rare, if it existed at all. Today, the evolution of the game has brought us more world-class wide forwards than traditional strikers, which speaks volumes about how the roles and demands of attacking players have transformed.