Performance in Numbers: Balbuena’s best West Ham display was bedrock of win

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Manuel Pellegrini assembled a new-look defence over the summer, but is yet to keep a clean sheet as West Ham manager.

While some might have been tempted to recall Angelo Ogbonna for the trip to Goodison Park, Pellegrini kept the faith with new-boys Issa Diop and Fabian Balbuena.

Balbuena produced a huge performance and we’ve had a look at the numbers behind the display at Everton that prove it…

Performance in Numbers

According to WhoScored, 6ft 2in defender Balbuena made a staggering nine clearances at Goodison. As the Hammers warded off the hosts in the second half, the centre-half’s contribution was vital.

On top of that, he made three interceptions to show his positioning was spot on against an attack that has been rejuvenated under Marco Silva.

74.1 per cent of his 27 passes found their target; that’s not bad for a team playing away from home. He also won two headers as Cenk Tosun was again unable to break his scoring drought.

Pellegrini will want more of the same

Pellegrini recognised the importance of rejuvenating his defence over the summer, but it has taken some time for Diop and Balbuena to settle in.

Diop was also imperious yesterday; he and Balbuena showed why Pellegrini brought them to east London. The Chilean will want to see some consistency now; Chelsea are up next and Balbuena will need to be at his best again to deal with Eden Hazard and co.