5 chances created, 3 tackles: Thiago with another sensational performance

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While Allison will deservedly get all the headlines, Thiago was undoubtedly man of the match in Liverpool’s 2-1 win at West Brom.

The most dramatic of finishes at The Hawthorns meant that Liverpool’s destiny is still in their own hands. If they win their last two games, they will play Champions League football next season.

The Reds dominated the game after Hal Robson-Kanu’s 15th-minute opener, with Mo Salah pulling one back soon after the half-hour mark.

Liverpool ended the game with a huge 76% of the possession share, which is evidence of the fact that they were well on top. They also managed 26 shots, compared to West Brom’s 10.

Yet it took until the 94th minute, when it looked like all hope was lost, for Jurgen Klopp’s men to get their winner.

And it was their No 1 that got the goal, in what will go down as one of the Premier League’s most famous ever moments.

Yet at the base of all this ball-domination was the brilliant Thiago.

Thiago on top for all the key stats

For the last number of years, Thiago has been a stat-man’s dream. He has always put up excellent numbers for everything a midfielder needs, like dribbles, passes and tackles.

Yet his performance against West Brom could be one of his best ever in terms of numbers.

He led the pack for chances created, shots taken, successful passes and tackles succeeded.

The Spaniard created a total of five chances. He took four shots, one of which was on target. He also completed two dribbles, the second-most of any Liverpool player.

Thiago didn’t shirk from his defensive responsibilities either. With West Brom threatening to counter-attack, he made a massive five tackles which helped his defenders massively.

In fact, you don’t even need to look at the stats to realise that he was outstanding.

Jamie Carragher awarded him the Sky Sports man of the match award, saying that he “ran the game”.

The 30-year-old has been phenomenal for the last few weeks. It is clear that having Fabinho beside him has helped him find his best form.

The duo will be crucial in the next two games and will need to repeat this performance to ensure that Liverpool feature in Europe’s premier competition next season.