Tackles And Interceptions
There is a clear winner in this category with Ugarte a lot stronger in terms of his defensive actions.
The Uruguayan international averaged 6.82 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal this season.
In contrast, Lavia, who also played as a defensive midfielder, managed only 3.77 tackles and interceptions per 90 in the Premier League.
Of course, you do have to take into account the teams they were playing for. Sporting finished fourth in Portugal, while the Saints finished bottom of the English top flight, but it does demonstrate Ugarte’s willingness to stick a boot in.