West Brom moved nine points clear of the playoffs to bolster their title claims following a stunning 3-0 victory at fellow promotion hopefuls Bristol City earlier this afternoon.
The Baggies eased to all three points even despite going down to ten men with Romaine Sawyers receiving his marching orders in the second half as they recorded 17 shots in comparison to the home side’s seven, per BBC’s match report.
Callum Robinson, on loan from Sheffield United, opened the scoring before Hal Robson-Kanu doubled their advantage less than five minutes later before the Welshman sealed a brace and the win for Slaven Bilic’s side.
Fans have been waxing lyrical on social media ever since the full-time whistle with plenty of praise coming in for captain Jake Livermore.
Here’s what has been said…
Livermore is a gladiator he has bullied Bristol City single handedly #wba
— Jon Simonian (@_Simonian) February 22, 2020
Livermore has been absolutely outstanding today… again! #wba
— James (@GibboAlbion) February 22, 2020
ANOTHER superb performance! Livermore once again absolutely incredible 👏 GET IN Baggies!!! #WBAFC #wba
— Adam (@adam_wba) February 22, 2020
Livermore is an absolute beast…..captain marvel #WBA #wba #COYB
— BoingBoingBaggie (@BaggieBoing) February 22, 2020
Jake Livermore, captain colossal #wba #coyb
— Damon Killian (@htimsAJ) February 22, 2020
Jake Livermore Ballon D'or what a performance #wba
— Nick Mangan (@Baggiebhoy1986) February 22, 2020
Livermore is playing like a man possessed 🔥
— Thomas The Skank Engine (@Rollsie7) February 22, 2020
Livermore had another belter of a match for us today – he's been outstanding for us this season.
— Steven Butler (@StevieB_WBA) February 22, 2020
Livermore has been different gravy today
— Marty Duffy 🇭🇷 (@Marty_Duffy) February 22, 2020
The range of superlatives used to describe the midfielder was neverending – “gladiator,” “beast,” and “different gravy” were all used whilst one supporter went as far as claiming that Livermore played “like a man possessed.”
Per SofaScore, the 30-year-old recorded two key passes, ten tackles and had four attempts at goal.
It has caused some members of the Baggies faithful to tip him up for Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the Euro 2020 Championship later this summer.
Jake Livermore for #EURO2020 #WBA
— Elliot Chamberlain (@Chambo334) February 22, 2020
Livermore surely not far off the Euros squad #wba
— Harris 🏴 (@HarrisWBA) February 22, 2020
There were even comparisons made to an array of midfielders, past and present, as one fan believed Livermore plays a similar role to Jordan Henderson for the European champions and runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Another added that he put in an “absolute Makelele,” referencing the former Chelsea powerhouse, Claude.
In addition, a further supporter likened him to Mick Channon – potentially one for the older generation.
Livermore to us is what Henderson is to Liverpool. Doesn't have to be the greatest player but they are essential. 100% committed. No coincidence that this spell is conjoined to Livermore playing brilliantly #WBA
— Tom Young (@tomr108) February 22, 2020
Livermore has put in an absolute Makelele there. Looked like a dad playing against his kids. Superb #wba
— Baggies Burger (@BaggiesBurger) February 22, 2020
Jake Livermore is probably the best number 8 this country has produced since Mick Channon.. Ask your dads #wba
— Zomeo Rondervan (@rondervan) February 22, 2020
And in other news, how Luke Dowling has GIFTED West Brom the edge in the title race…