West Bromwich Albion were beaten 1-0 away at the DW Stadium by Wigan Athletic in their latest league fixture. They are currently 3rd in the rankings having collected 24 points from 13 games. The Baggies will face Derby County tomorrow and will be keen to get back to winning ways with the fixtures coming thick and fast.
West Bromwich Albion Team News
Bakary Sako and Matt Phillips are still out owing to their respective ankle and muscle injury. Craig Dawson suffered a knock while plying his trade against the Latics and is unlikely to feature. Besides, Jake Livermore will also be out of action after he picked up a red card in the last game.
PREDICTED WEST BROMWICH ALBION LINEUP (3-4-1-2)
Defence
Sam Johnstone deserves to retain his place in goal for Albion. The custodian has been one of the best players for his side and Moore is unlikely to trifle with his position between the sticks. A three-man defensive wall is set to be rolled out once again.
Tosin Adarabioyo is expected to come in for Dawson, while Ahmed Hegazi and Kyle Bartley should continue at the back. Hegazi has made 1.7 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.8 clearances per game on an average so far this season and has been a huge asset for the Throstles.
Midfield
Kieran Gibbs has been a revelation down the left, and the former Arsenal man is likely to continue in the same position in midfield. On the other side, we expect Tyrone Mears to get the nod to start once again. Injury to Phillips has enabled Mears to get game time, and he needs to make his presence felt.
Wes Hoolahan could replace the suspended Livermore in central midfield. Without a doubt, Hoolahan is a good option, and he must make the most of the opportunity if he gets the green light to start tomorrow. Meanwhile, Chris Brunt is likely to start alongside him.
Attack
Dwight Gayle has been fantastic up front, having plundered eight goals and registered one assist in 12 appearances in the Championship. Jay Rodriguez is expected to start along with Gayle in the striking department.
Harvey Barnes is set to start as the central attacking midfielder. In 13 appearances, the 20-year-old has scored five goals and has also registered two assists and has been one of their most impressive players. He is surely strengthening his case for a permanent move to Hawthorns with his performances.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
