The 2024/2025 season has now reached its midway point. While, as ever, there’s a real focus on the strikers, it must be remembered that the goalkeepers play an equally vital role. While it’s easy to see who has the most goals and assists, assessing a keeper’s performance isn’t quite as simple. However, that doesn’t mean that it can’t be done and, as of December 2024, it’s Mads Hermansen that’s leading the way.
The Danish international has put in some outstanding performances for Leicester City this season. While there may be other issues on the pitch, it’s these stellar performances that are keeping City alive.
As you read on, we’re going to look at how Hermansen has performed, how this is measured, and who his major competition is.
The Metrics Used to Identify the Top Keeper
The favoured way of measuring a keeper’s performance is now PSxG (post-shot expected goals). This is used by looking at the quality of the shots faced by a keeper and how many goals they should concede based on the chances. Right now, Hermansen comes out with a score of +5.8 PSxG. This puts him firmly on top when it comes to EPL rankings and it shows that he is performing consistently.
It has to be said that this season, so far, has been a struggle for Leicester. The defence has been far from solid and this is having a major impact on performances. Despite these failings, Hermansen’s heroics are what are keeping the Foxes afloat. If you’re looking for proof of just how good he has been, just watch the Arsenal match where he made a record breaking 13 saves. While Leicester ultimately lost the match, no blame could be laid at Hermansen’s door.
A Closer Look at the Arsenal Performance
The Arsenal match showcased the sheer brilliance of Hermansen. He faced relentless pressure from one of the best attacking teams in the EPL and he was nothing short of outstanding in how he dealt with this. His 13 saves go to show how he’s certainly skilful, but they also show his mental strength as he was able to keep going. To find anyone who has ever made more saves in a single game, you need to look back to 2017 and David de Gea.
It’s rare in a match for the keeper’s performance to overshadow what happens out on the pitch. However, this was certainly the case with Hermansen against Arsenal. Fans on both sides were left in awe at what he achieved.
Consistency Vs. Chaos
Leicester has hardly got off to a great start during the first half of the season. In fact, their defensive struggles are well documented . The backline is always at risk of a total collapse, with Hermansen constantly finding himself as the last line of defence. Performances against West Ham and Brighton saw him make crucial saves that secured much needed points and, without him, Leicester’s woes would be much deeper.
Right now, Hermansen finds himself sidelined with injury, but no one can deny the impact that he’s had on the season so far. Anyone looking to wager on Leicester City staying up this season at a Premier League betting website will be looking to hold on and see when Hermansen is set to return. Without him, survival chances look slim.
The Competition
While Hermansen is the clear leader so far, there are other keeper’s that have put in some outstanding performances. Dean Henderson at Crystal Palace and Andre Onana at Manchester United have also had a great start to the season, ranking 2nd and 3rd respectively. Palace is another team that is seeing real struggles and it’s down to Henderson that things aren’t so much worse. The big difference between Hermasen and the competition is that the former is so consistent.
It has to be said that Alisson, Liverpool’s keeper, is also performing well, and could well be a contender by the end of the season. He has certainly had a great first half but, so far, he is overshadowed by the brilliance of Hermansen.
Beyond the Numbers
While metrics are a vital part of assessing performance, there is more to a keeper than these. When you look at Hermansen, there are leadership qualities and a calming influence that are just as important. He has a real presence in the box and he has managed to bring some form of structure to what has been a shaky backline.
The wider footballing world is also taking note. There are rumours that Hermansen could be snapped up by one of the bigger European clubs. If Leicester continues with its current form, it would hardly be surprising to see Hermansen taking any offer coming his way.
Final Thoughts
Watching Hermansen rise to the top during the 2024/2025 season has been fascinating. While his team may be facing struggles, he has continually put in first-class performances and is responsible for giving them a fighting chance to remain in the EPL.
Hermansen’s injury is bad news for his club. Without him in place, there will need to be radical changes to the defensive setup. Long-term, these changes are a must regardless of Hermansen’s presence but, without him, there is a greater sense of urgency. His return will be welcomed by teammates and fans alike as he looks to secure the top spot at the end of the season.
