Headline-maker: Roberto De Zerbi said Jack Hinshelwood could become the new Pascal Gross at his press conference on Tuesday and then told reporters: “I’ve given you your headline.” Actually, Jack himself was the headline-maker on what could become an “I was there” occasion thanks to his second-half winner – just after he had cleared off the line. Not a classic match but one that provided classic moments.

Tough trip: Two seasons ago, the visit of Brentford took place on Boxing Day and a lack of public transport led to a crowd way below capacity. Major rail disruption today was surely the over-riding reason for what looked a reduced crowd with empty seats visible in all stands. They were thanked for their efforts in getting there

Full-backs: The busy Joel Veltman was on the bench this time and Hinshelwood and Gross had full-back duties. Of course, full-back is not what it used to be. Both men tucked well in or got forward at times, as evidenced by their role in first Albion goal and certainly the second. Hinshelwood reverted to the right-back role he had in the USA during the summer. Carlos Baleba was often a third centre-back in terms both of defending and receiving the ball.

Igor, Igor: The old Bruno chant (previously used for Vicente) has a new owner. “Ole, ole, ole, ole, Igor” rang out at one stage in the second half. As did a very warm welcome back for Jakub Moder in his first home game for 20 months.

Celebration time: Hinshelwood lapped up the occasion when he scored and again at full-time, urging the North Stand to increase the noise and then turning to punch the air. And why not? It was his night.