The new Championship season is almost upon us and West Bromwich Albion will be keen on making a quick return to the top flight after suffering the pain of relegation a few months ago.
Darren Moore’s side tried to put up a late fight for survival but it was too late as things were out of their hand during the last few weeks
The Baggies have had a pretty impressive pre-season, however, and confidence will be high in the camp before their opening game this weekend. They host a Bolton Wanderers side who managed to scrape past relegation last season and will hope to put up a stronger challenge this season and target a top half finish.
Bolton had a mixed pre-season, having managed just two wins. They were beaten by Guiseley and could only manage draws against Atherton Collieries and Girona.
With West Brom playing at home, you can already tell who the favourites for this game will be. Without further ado, let’s look at how the Baggies could line up for the game…
Predicted West Brom lineup
Defence
Sam Johnstone started the last game as he took over from Jonathan Bond and is expected to be in goal this Saturday. Bond started the previous two games against Aberdeen and Barnsley but could see himself on the bench for the clash against Bolton.
Craig Dawson and Kyle Bartley are expected to start at the heart of the defence. The duo featured against Barnsley as well. Kieran Gibbs is the first choice full-back when fit and will take his place on the left. Nyom is expected to start as the right-back as the club ponder on offering Martin Cranie a contract.
Midfield
Jake Livermore and James Morrison are expected to start in the middle. The duo will provide the steel in midfield. Morrison does like to make the occasional dash forward and will be a threat from the edge of the box.
Matt Phillips and Chris Brunt will provide the width in midfield. Considering the players they have up top, expect a few crosses from the two wide players.
Keep an eye for Harvey Barnes who is just 20 and has impressed in pre-season. He could get a few minutes.
Attack
Hal Robson-Kanu and Jay Rodriguez will play as the two forwards. Both have the ability to drop deep and play as the withdrawn striker and are pretty good on the ball, so West Brom should be looking at goals in the upcoming fixture. Robson-Kanu scored three goals in the last two pre-season games and is in good touch.
Predicted West Brom XI: Johnstone, Gibbs, Dawson, Bartley, Nyom, Morrison, Livermore, Phillips, Brunt, Robson-Kanu, Rodriguez
