West Brom 1 Sheffield United 0 - Player ratings

Sam Johnstone

Another week, another outstanding display from Albion’s No.1. Johnstone’s point-blank save to deny Oli McBurnie was top drawer. The keeper also made excellent stops to leave Oliver Burke and Rhian Brewster scratching their heads. But just as importantly, he also commanded his box well.

Commanding 9

Darnell Furlong

So strong in the air, Furlong almost scored when he met a cross from Matheus Pereira. Exciting going forward and solid defensively, he is tailor-made for the wing-back role.

Energetic 8

Semi Ajayi

Another steady display from the Nigeria international who now looks at home in the Premier League. Once again Ajayi used his pace well while also being strong in the air and tidy on the ball.

Towering 7

Branislav Ivanovic

Picked up a booking just two minutes in. But Ivanovic used all his nous and experience to make sure it didn’t affect him. The former Chelsea man had one or two worrying moments against the pacey Burke. Overall, though, his passion and organisational skills were crucial to this win.

Leader 7

Kyle Bartley

The centre-back was so close to scoring with a powerful header. Bartley defended superbly at times. But there were other occasions where Sheffield United’s forward line had him at sixes and sevens.

Hit and miss 6

Conor Townsend

Another promising display from the wing-back who was in the right place to clear a George Baldock effort off the line. Took a nasty whack which led to him being subbed. Will be sorely missed if he is out for a while.

Consistent 7

Conor Gallagher

It feels as though everything that is good about Albion goes through this fantastic young midfielder. Yet again Gallagher covered every blade of grass and used the ball well. And now he’s adding goals to his game as well. Fantastic.

Quality 8

Romaine Sawyers

Just like at Old Trafford, Sawyers was excellent. The midfielder was a physical presence in the middle of the park. He also moved the ball well with his clever passing.

Intelligent 8

Matheus Pereira

This was a match that saw Pereira create nine chances for his team mates. That is most by a player in a single Premier League game so far this season. A truly magical display.

Majestic 9

Callum Robinson

Against his former side, Robinson linked play well and helped create space in which Pereira was able to thrive. Unlucky to be subbed.

Quietly effective 7

Karlan Grant

The striker looked a bit rusty with his touch letting him down on a couple of occasions as he struggled to get in the game.

Quiet 5

Substitutes

Hal Robson-Kanu (for Robinson) 6, Matt Phillips (for Townsend) 5, Filip Krovinovic (for Grant) 5. Subs not used: Button, O’Shea, Harper, Diangana