Carlton Cole has suggested, albeit jokingly, that West Ham United left-back Aaron Cresswell is a better free-kick taker than Lionel Messi and James Ward-Prowse.
The former Hammers striker was involved in a debate regarding free-kick takers on TalkSport alongside Darren Bent and presenter Laura Woods. Ward-Prowse has come in for plenty of set-piece praise in the past, with Pep Guardiola even suggesting he is the best in the world in that department.
Cole contributed to the discussion by suggesting in jest that Cresswell is better than the aforementioned duo following his set-piece exploits last weekend against Everton. He said: “What? You think Messi is better than Ward-Prowse right now? I’m not sure. I think Ward-Prowse is up there definitely, but I’d put Cresswell above all of them!”
TIF Thoughts on Cole’s claim…
Of course, Cole meant this as a little bit of light-hearted fun. However, Cresswell is perhaps an underrated free-kick taker who deserves more praise for his ability to create havoc in such situations. Since the start of the 2018/19 season, only seven players have scored more direct free-kicks than the Liverpudlian, an indication of his ability.
Who is better at free-kicks?
Lionel Messi
Aaron Cresswell
James Ward-Prowse
However, Ward-Prowse is clearly more adept. Over the same time period, he has netted 11 free-kicks, more than any other player in the Premier League. Even that record is overshadowed by seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi, who has found the back of the net from free-kicks 14 times in league matches during the same spell. That is perhaps unsurprising given he is arguably the greatest player to ever play the game.
So, yes, Cresswell has a long way to go to match the very best in the business. But, as his goal at the weekend against Everton showed, he is one to keep an eye on.