Just a week after picking up the official Man of the Match award for his impressive performance against Wigan, Joleon Lescott is once again back in the spotlight.
The centre back displayed some clinical defending against West Ham and carefully cancelled out the aerial threat of striker Andy Carroll.
Let’s take a closer look at Lescott’s strong and sturdy showing…
City TV: Spotlight
Joleon’s classy defending captured on camera…
Mixed Zone
How the press summed up Joleon’s contribution…
Stuart Brennan of the Manchester Evening News underlines the defender’s handling of Andy Caroll as an important part of keeping West Ham at bay.
“Lescott brought in to combat Carroll’s height and strength, which he did perfectly – but also showed some quality defending.”
Meanwhile, Rhys Turrell of goal.com praises Lescott’s collected performance but questions if his latest efforts will be enough to secure a place in the starting XI at Wembley.
“He [Lescott] slotted back into the back four in place of young Matija Nastasic, and was composed and solid throughout, even if the England man was somewhat untested.
“Remains to be seen if he can hold onto his place for the FA Cup final, however.”
Stat Attack
While stats don’t tell the whole story, they can shed an interesting light on a player’s contribution - check out these chin-stroking tidbits courtesy of must-follow Twitter account, StatCity.
Talisman: Joleon Lescott has never lost a Premier League game at the Etihad Stadium (P49, W40, D9, L0).
Controlled: The defender enjoyed 94% pass completion rate against West Ham, only misplacing two passes all afternoon.
One step ahead: No player made more interceptions v WHU than Lescott (Gael Clichy also three).
Well placed: He has cleared the ball off the line twice this season, more than any other City player.
Clean and tidy: Joleon has only conceded two fouls all season in the Premier League. Less than any other City player to have played more than ten games.
@MCFC
Finally, a quick look at the fans’ verdict on Lescott...
