Kenneth Taylor: Lazio's main threat - 
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13 Apr 26 / 10:05

Kenneth Taylor: Lazio's main threat

After joining Lazio in January from Ajax, Kenneth Taylor immediately established himself as a regular starter for Maurizio Sarri's side. The Dutchman seemingly bypassed the usual bedding-in period required for players to adapt to the tactical scenario of Serie A, proving himself to be a top player from day one. Out of all Lazio’s players Taylor arguably presents the biggest danger to Fiorentina this Monday evening.

Since arriving in Rome he has established himself as one of the most important creative and dynamic players in his Lazio side. Although he plays as part of a three-man midfield, he serves the role as a true all-rounder, disproving those who had doubts about his defensive capabilities. Although he’s not particularly strong in the air Taylor more than makes up for this with fantastic dynamism. Since joining the club he has made 12 consecutive starts, running an average of an impressive 7.45 miles per game.

That’s not bad for a midfielder who was primarily praised at the start of his career for his ball-playing ability. At Lazio the Dutchman has not only put in the hard yards but has made a really difference when in possession. Taylor is a two-footed player, and his brace against Bologna featured a goal from both his left and right foot. This also makes defending against him a real challenge, as defenders can’t simply force him onto his weaker side.

Despite his versatility he prefers to stay on the left side of the pitch, from where he can unleash his best gift – penetrating runs onto the end of crosses. In addition to his eye for goal, Taylor’s versatility has proven to be a real asset to Lazio. For example, when Danilo Cataldi was out with an injury, it was the Dutchman who stepped up, demonstrating his knack of filling in across the midfield with no drop in quality.