Stat Attack - Sunderland

We take a look at Manuel Lanzini's impact against Sunderland

West Ham United had to fight back from two goals down to earn their point at Sunderland on Saturday and one of the key figures behind their revival at the Stadium of Light was Manuel Lanzini.

‘The Jewel’ was a real livewire in his play against the Black Cats and won your vote on Twitter as the Hammers’ Man of the Match, as well as attracting special praise from the manager.

Looking at his touch map from the game, it is easy to see why.

The summer arrival popped up all over the pitch as he tried to help the Hammers back into the game, and had 48 touches of the ball in the Sunderland half.

One of those played a role in the equalising goal as his shot proved too hot for Costel Pantilimon to handle, allowing Dimitri Payet to steal in and slot home.

The Argentine also had a team-high pass completion rate of 92.5%, making 37 of his 40 passes, while making two interceptions to show his value at the other end of the pitch as well.

Lanzini has enjoyed a fine start to life with the Hammers, scoring on his full Barclays Premier League debut against Liverpool, and starting in every one of the Club’s current five-match unbeaten league run.

For a player taking his first steps in English football, he has certainly got off on the right foot and Bilic was in no doubt as to his value in his post-match interview on Saturday.

He said: “People are saying he is a number ten, for me he is not that and he likes to get a lot of contact on the ball and he is gaining space. I like him a lot as a player and he is a big asset for us.

“He is the one that gives Payet a breather and the opportunities to get the ball when he is not marked. The two of them are really good together.”

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