It’s a criticism that has followed Alexis Mac Allister all season — a perceived lack of pace in midfield.
But according to Opta Sports data, that narrative doesn’t quite hold up.
In fact, the numbers reveal something surprising:
👉 Mac Allister has recorded a higher top speed this season than Liverpool target Adam Wharton.
The Wharton stat that stands out
Wharton, widely praised for his composure and technical ability, actually ranks among the 10 slowest outfield players in the Premier League this season.
His recorded top speed?
👉 30.94 km/h
For a player being linked with a move to Liverpool FC, it’s a stat that raises eyebrows — especially given the criticism aimed at Mac Allister.
Perception vs reality
This is a classic case of perception not matching the data.
Mac Allister is often labelled as “slow” because:
- He doesn’t rely on sprinting
- He plays at his own tempo
- His game is built on positioning and intelligence
But the raw numbers suggest he’s not as limited physically as some believe.
Does pace really matter?
The bigger question is whether top speed even tells the full story.
Players like:
- Mac Allister
- Wharton
Operate in roles where:
- Positioning matters more than sprinting
- Decision-making is key
- Control of the game outweighs physical bursts
So while the stat is eye-catching, it doesn’t necessarily mean one player is “better” than the other.
What it means for Liverpool
If Liverpool are seriously considering Wharton, this stat highlights an important point:
They wouldn’t be signing him for pace.
They’d be signing him for:
- Control
- Composure
- Technical quality
The same qualities Mac Allister already brings.
Final thought
This stat flips the narrative slightly.
Mac Allister — often criticised — is actually quicker on paper.
Wharton — highly rated — is among the slowest in the league by top speed.
But football isn’t played on a stopwatch.
And for Liverpool, the real question isn’t who’s faster…
It’s who fits the system best.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
The Kopite View 
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