West Brom player ratings

Hart – Fortunate a couple of strikes came back off the woodwork but a strong all-round display. 6.5

Boateng – Showed the quality going forward that was evident in the World Cup. Looks set to really kick on. 7

Kolo Toure – Concentration was good and made a couple of timely tackles. 7

Kompany – Plenty of authority and kept the West Brom forwards at bay for the most part. 7

Zabaleta – Excellent at left-back, strong and committed throughout. ‘Pascal’ proved he is the best alternative to Kolarov in that position. 7.5

de Jong – No effects from the recent injury and an important presence throughout, especially after such an early booking. 7

Barry – Passing was far better than it has been of late. Clearly prefers the comfort of de Jong in the midfield. 7

Yaya Toure – Best game for the club. Strong and marauding, expect him to add goals over the course of the season. 8

Silva – Some masterful passing from the Spaniard, who was influential in creating both goals. Getting better and better with each game. 7.5

Balotelli – Summed up in an entertaining sixty minutes on the pitch. With the focus on the sending, it is easy to forget what a good player he looked. Much, much more to come. 6

Tevez – Such a vital presence and seems to enliven the side when he plays. As strong and committed as we have seen. 7.5

Subs:

Johnson – Not particularly required going forward but pitched in well late on to help secure the points. 6.5