Ross Jones

Mon 22 June 2020 21:20, UK

In the grand scheme of things, West Brom could have had a much worse start to their Championship run-in.

Dropping points against Birmingham City was never in the script, but with Leeds United and Fulham both losing, the Baggies somehow managed to finish the weekend top of the league and in a safer position than when they started.

And another positive to come out of Saturday’s derby was the return of Kieran Gibbs.

The 30-year-old hadn’t played since New Year’s Day prior to this weekend, but he came straight back into the side at Connor Townsend’s expense and slotted in perfectly.

With a pass completion rate of 88%, a dribble completion rate of 100%, and a total action success rate of 84%, as per Wyscout, he looked very assured on the left flank.

As a point of reference, all of those figures are at least 8% higher than Townsend’s.

Defensively, things were a little quieter, but Gibbs still won both of his defensive duels and his only sliding tackle, as well as making three interceptions.

But it’s the extra attacking threat he provides that is most welcome.

He may have only had two dribbles against Birmingham, but he completed them both, and just look at how advanced they were.

In that area of the field, Gibbs might as well be playing as a second winger, and by overloading one side of a defence like that, you’re always going to give the opposition headaches.

The image above is prime example.

Gibbs is already bombing on as the through ball is released from the engine room, and when he is eventually able to run on the pass – as you can see – he is the most advanced Albion player on the pitch.

Full credit to Gibbs though, he isn’t just a mindless running machine.

As pictured above, he has enough skill and awareness to get to the byline and then sell his man a wonderful dummy that leaves him completely out of position.

In fact, Gibbs changes direction at such pace that the defender is still facing the stands as the ex-Arsenal begins his foray into the box.

And that too is testament to his attacking talents.

Most defenders in that position would get their head up and fire a pass into a vaguely dangerous area in the hope of somebody connecting with it.

Gibbs, however, has the ability and self-confidence to continue his venture, driving into the heart of the area with purpose and speed.

Admittedly, nothing came of it this time, but this example is a perfect encapsulation of just what he can offer West Brom over these next few crucial weeks.

Simply put, he has to keep his spot in the side against Brentford on Friday.

In other West Brom news, Steve Madeley confirms Baggies hopeful of completing paperwork on major transfer this week

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