Overview
- Igor Thiago scored twice to reach 16 Premier League goals, surpassing single-season tallies by Roberto Firmino, Gabriel Martinelli and Matheus Cunha.
- Brentford’s 3-0 victory over Sunderland strengthened their European push and lifted Keith Andrews’ side to fifth in the table.
- Thiago has five goals in his last two league matches after a hat-trick at Everton days earlier, and now has 16 in 21 Premier League appearances this season.
- Andrews said he substituted Thiago in the 82nd minute as a precaution after the striker took a knock, calling the decision difficult but necessary.
- After an injury-hit debut year limited to eight games, Thiago’s form has put him in contention for Brazil selection ahead of pre-World Cup friendlies.