Thanks to Yousef from the away end at West Ham. 

Dubravka – 7 – Given that we were away from home against decent opposition, had surprisingly little to do in terms of saves. But did what was needed when called upon, quick off his line, and as usual was vocal in organising his defence. Not at fault for the goal.

Krafth – 6 – Gave away a silly free kick for the goal (there was no danger). West Ham didn’t get much joy, but what they did get came down his side. On the plus side, used the ball better than he normally does. Poor, but he’s been worse. Not his fault he isn’t Kieran Trippier.

Schar – 7 – Brought the ball out of defence well, never allowed West Ham’s runners to get in behind him, and developing a good relationship with Burn already. Solid.

Burn – 8 – Dominant in the air and repeatedly showed his comfort on the ball. Two commanding displays in a row make him undroppable at the minute.

Targett – 7 – West Ham sent everything down their left side. It wasn’t only because Krafth is weak. It was also because Targett is solid. Did the simple things well and rarely out of position. Would like to have seen more from him going forward, but perhaps that will come against lesser opposition.

Joelinton – 9 – Declan Rice is one of the best central midfielders in Europe, but did not get close to winning his midfield battle today. An absolutely massive performance from the big man. His best in a black and white shirt. Tigerish in the tackle and covered a phenomenal amount of ground.

Shelvey – 7 – Came close to matching Joelinton in the first half with a commanding midfield performance, but unfortunately allowed himself to get a little overrun at times during the second. He looks most likely to be the one to give way for Bruno, when the time comes.

Willock – 8 – Superb in the first half and thoroughly deserved his goal. Playing with more confidence and his running was crucial in ASM’s absence. Willock was the one who stepped up to ensure we didn’t miss our best player as much as we’d feared. Faded a little after the break and not surprising he was substituted, but overall an excellent display.

Murphy – 7  His final ball was lacking at times, but he had his role in the goal, was busy, and consistently offered himself as an option. Excellent off the ball from him today. If he was better on it, he’d be some player.

Fraser – 6 – Failed to hit the heights of recent weeks. A fairly anonymous afternoon. Seems to struggle a little in Trippier’s absence. Wasn’t bad, but on a day when there were excellent performances from many of his team mates, his failure to hit the same heights unfortunately stood out.

Wood – 6 – Led the line reasonably well, but too often play slowed down when it came near him, or the ball did not stick. Nonetheless, he put himself about, and made life difficult for the odious Kurt Zouma. If he continues to work this hard, that first goal will come.

YOUSEF HATEM – @yousef_1892