Analysis of Ben Gibson performance in Norwich 2-0 West Brom

There was a stage during Norwich's last title-winning crusade where Gibson looked like one of the best defensive operators in the whole division. 

It wasn't just his ball-playing qualities but also his defensive capabilities that helped forge a formidable partnership alongside Grant Hanley during that memorable campaign. It is the reason Norwich fought so hard to sign him after his exile from Burnley, paying £8m for his services after promotion. 

An ankle injury that he suffered at the back end of that season against Blackburn set him back, and consistency and rediscovering that level have proven difficult since. 

Gibson has had to soak up criticism and was even booed by a minority of supporters as he made his 100th appearance as a substitute against Huddersfield before Christmas. Irrespective of opinions of his displays, that is not Norwich. That is not how it treats its players - especially amid difficult circumstances in his personal life in recent months. 

This performance was a reminder of Gibson's qualities at this level and arguably his best outing in a significant period of time - maybe since David Wagner took charge. 

Gibson was ferocious in his defensive efforts - no Norwich player won more tackles, made more blocks or interceptions than the experienced defender. Along with his defensive partner Shane Duffy, he recorded nine clearances. 

His intervention to prevent Brandon Thomas-Asante after the striker had initially rolled him showed the instinctive defensive qualities he possesses. The West Brom striker's first touch did offer Gibson an opportunity to win the ball, but he had to time it correctly. 

Like Duffy, Gibson is comfortable and has the relevant skillset to deal with a barrage of crosses and was aerially strong throughout the encounter. With his head or his feet, he was willing to put his body in harm's way to protect his goal. 

There was even an interesting tactical tweak that saw Gibson push into a midfield position when Norwich went to press higher up the pitch to enable Gabriel Sara to join them situations whilst ensuring they weren't vulnerable to turnovers when West Brom sought to transition up the pitch. 

His inclusion also allowed Norwich to push Kenny McLean back into midfield, knowing that Gibson offers a level of security in possession that has been lacking and led to the Scottish international being deployed there. 

There is little coincidence that Gibson's reinstatement, coupled with McLean's placement in a higher midfield position, enabled Norwich's work with the ball and allowed them to progress up the pitch with a greater level of ease. 

Only Gabriel Sara (five) made more progressive passes than Gibson (two) - with Norwich looking more secure in possession for most of the contest. 

Ben Gibson played his role in keeping Brandon Thomas-Asante quiet. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

It was a performance that reminded everyone the qualities that he possesses, like most of those who have played alongside Duffy this season, Gibson looks a better player when he does so. 

Maybe it came at the right time, given his contractual situation at Carrow Road, having entered the final six months of his deal. As one of City's highest earners, there is a decision for sporting director Ben Knapper to take. 

Finances rather than football might make that call for Knapper, but Gibson has shown he is going to put up a fight to try and force City's hand. After a torrid spell at Burnley, he has enjoyed life in Norfolk despite the ups and downs. 

Norwich have a host of emerging defenders in Brad Hills, Emmanuel Adeboyega, Jaden Warner and Jonathan Tomkinson, who will be desperate for a place in City's squad ahead of next season and, in the case of Hills, Adeboyega and Tomkinson, will be hoping to use loan moves away to prove their readiness. 

With limited spots available, it may well come down to whether Knapper views Gibson as occupying one of the more experienced slots in their side - with Duffy and Hanley both on longer-term deals. 

There would undoubtedly be a host of Championship suitors for his services if Norwich elect not to offer him a renewal and don't consider him to be a player for the next part of their journey. 

Ben Gibson contributed to a better in-possession showing from Norwich City. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd)

Gibson has a race against time to prove that this level of performance can become the norm. If he does that in the second half of the season, Norwich will have a real decision to make. 

He is their only natural left-sided option at present - Norwich undeniably benefited from that in this victory. They are desired commodities in modern football. 

There is plenty to like about what Gibson offers, and Saturday's showing was a reminder of the levels he can reach when he finds the top of his game. 

VERDICT: His best performance in a yellow and green shirt for some time. Defensive solidity and quality in possession. When he is in this form, he ranks among the very best at this level. Next mission to discover a consistency in his game. 

RATING: 8 out of 10