West Brom's 'brilliant' Claudio Yacob is praised by Jonas Olsson
West Bromich Albion defender Jonas Olsson today joined the chorus of praise for Claudio Yacob and likened the new fans' favourite to Barcelona star Javier Mascherano.
Olsson hailed West Brom's scouts for spotting Yacob, who is statistically the Premier League's top tackler since moving from Buenos Aires side Racing Club de Avellaneda in the summer.
And Olsson echoed comparisons made between the 25-year-old and fellow Argentina international Mascherano in their homeland.
"I can definitely see the comparisons with Mascherano," said Olsson. "I thought he was brilliant when he played at Liverpool.
"He's such a physical player. He, for me, is one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.
"Claudio is a brilliant player and I can see the resemblance. He has been top class for us and he can do a lot more than just tackle – his ability on the ball is very good as well.
"When you have someone like him and Youssouf Mulumbu sitting in front of you it is a big help to the defence."
Opta statistics rate Yacob as the most successful tackler in the Premier League with a success percentage of more than 88 per cent – higher than anyone else.
Only West Ham's Mark Noble has made more successful tackles – 33 to Yacob's 31 – but at a lower success rate. He has been an instant hit with fans.
