STATS: Olsson’s clearances for West Brom vs Canas’ interceptions for Swansea
West Brom vs Swansea 13:30
– Neither of these two teams have had the best of starts to the season, with neither team managing to get any wins on the board. Swansea’s Jose Canas shouldn’t shoulder too much of the blame for this, as, according to EA Sports Player Performance Index, he made 6 interceptions against Tottenham – only Fabian Delph made more.
– Swansea may have struggled for goals so far this season but it is difficult to say that they have been short of service. The Spaniard Pablo Hernandez has whipped in 3 crosses so far this season, the third most of any midfielder.
– Ashley Williams may have gained most of the plaudits over the last couple of seasons for his ability to marshall the Swansea defence, but credit shouldn’t be taken away from his centre half partner Chico Flores. Over the course of the first couple of games, the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index has shown that Flores has made 25 clearances. Tied third in the league.
– West Brom may have conceded only one goal in their opening two fixtures, but Graham Dorrans will have to improve his tackling to ensure that this solid defence is maintained. The Scottish midfielder has lost 7 tackles this season, the third most in the league.
– Last season the big boys came knocking for Jonas Olsson, and his defensive contributions so far this season demonstrate why. According to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index, the Swede has made 25 clearances, tied with Swansea’s Chico Flores.
– It is not only the heart of the Baggies defence which has proved resilient this year, as Billy Jones made his mark on Saturday too. His total of 4 blocks was more than any other player in the league.
– The news that Ben Foster is out for 3 months is a catastrophic blow to the Baggies chances of improving on their eighth place finish that they achieved last year. The English number 2 has made 9 saves so far this season, with only Asmir Begovic making more.
– Sitting in front of the back four, Claudio Yacob has also played his part in ensuring that West Brom’s defence has remained resolute. Winning a total of 10 tackles has meant that he has made the fourth most in the league, according to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.