The Renaissance of Long Throw-Ins
In modern football's obsession with intricate build-up play and positional superiority, one of the oldest tactical weapons has been quietly revolutionizing attacking approaches: the long throw-in. Teams like Arsenal and Brentford have transformed what was once considered a "hoof and hope" tactic into a sophisticated, data-backed attacking pattern that generates Expected Goals (xG) values comparable to well-worked corner routines.
Recent data from the 2023/24 Premier League season reveals that long throw-ins into the penalty area create an average of 0.15-0.18 xG per attempt — significantly higher than the 0.03 xG from standard throw-ins and approaching the 0.22 xG average of corner kicks.
Key Statistics
Arsenal's Systematic Approach
Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have weaponized long throw-ins through meticulous planning and execution. The Gunners employ a specialist thrower rotation system, primarily utilizing players with elite upper-body strength and technique to deliver balls into dangerous zones with pace and accuracy.
Tactical Setup
- Target Zones: Arsenal predominantly target the 6-yard box front post area (42% of throws) and the penalty spot zone (31%)
- Player Positioning: Minimum 3 attackers attack the ball, 2 positioned for second balls, 1 remains outside the box for clearances
- Movement Patterns: Coordinated runs create space through defensive line manipulation - typically a decoy run to the near post opens space for the genuine target
Arsenal's success rate has been remarkable: in the 2023/24 season, they generated 18 shots directly from long throw-ins, converting 4 into goals. Their xG per throw-in averaged 0.21 — higher than their corner kick average of 0.19.
Brentford's Statistical Edge
Brentford have taken the data-driven approach to its logical extreme. Their recruitment specifically identifies players with long-throw capability as a secondary attribute, and their training ground features dedicated throw-in practice sessions that mirror their set-piece preparation.
Offensive Impact
- • 23 goal-scoring chances created
- • 6 goals scored directly
- • Average throw distance: 32 meters
- • Success rate: 44% result in shot attempt
Second-Ball Dominance
- • 68% second-ball retention
- • Average 2.1 progressive passes after throw
- • Creates overloads in attacking third
- • Forces opponents into reactive defending
The Bees' approach focuses heavily on second-ball dominance. Rather than targeting primary aerial duels, they position multiple players to contest clearances and loose balls, effectively creating a mini-pressing situation within the penalty area.
Defensive Countermeasures
As long throw-ins become more sophisticated, defensive responses have evolved. Elite teams now employ specific strategies to neutralize this threat:
Zonal Marking Hybrid
Combining zone coverage of dangerous areas with man-marking of dangerous aerial threats reduces conversion rates by approximately 28%
Aggressive Goalkeeper Positioning
Keepers starting 2-3 yards off their line can claim or punch 41% more long throws compared to standard positioning
Second-Ball Numerical Superiority
Positioning 4+ players outside the penalty area for clearances disrupts the attacking team's second-ball strategy
Scout's Analysis
The tactical renaissance of long throw-ins represents modern football's capacity for innovation within established rules. What separates elite execution from amateur attempts is the systematic approach: dedicated training, specific personnel recruitment, coordinated movement patterns, and data-backed target zone selection.
For recruitment purposes, identifying players with elite throw-in capability (30+ meters with accuracy) should be considered a valuable secondary attribute, particularly for teams operating in leagues where physicality is prevalent. The 0.15+ xG per attempt metric makes this a statistically significant offensive weapon that deserves dedicated training ground attention.