Having collected eight points from their four Championship outings so far, West Brom will travel to Pride Park Stadium to face Derby County in their next league game on Saturday.
West Brom have certainly shown a lot of promise under Slaven Bilic, but need to start winning games on a consistent basis.
The Baggies maintained their unbeaten start to the new campaign following a late equaliser against Reading earlier this week as the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
West Brom have lost their last two games against Derby, and have conceded seven goals in the process. So Bilic’s side will want to change that record come Saturday.
West Brom Team News
Ahmed Hegazy and Hal Robson-Kanu are the only two players unavailable for selection against Derby County.
Predicted West Brom lineup vs Derby County (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Sam Johnstone could have a busier afternoon against Phillip Cocu’s side, who are likely to be more adventurous in their approach compared to Reading.
Semi Ajayi and Kyle Bartley could be the central defensive pair. Kieran Gibbs and Darnell Furlong could get the nod to start as the full-backs.
Furlong impressed on the right against the Royals with his industry, and deserves to start yet again.
Midfield
While Jake Livermore brings the element of resilience in the central midfield with his physicality and tenacity, Romaine Sawyers and Filip Krovinovic will play as the slightly attacking players.
Krovinovic averages 1.8 key passes per game on an average, and it was he who played a big hand in West Brom’s equaliser in midweek after winning the penalty late on in the game.
Attack
Charlie Austin started in the midweek fixture against Reading, but he is expected to make way for Kenneth Zohore this weekend. Zohore scored from the spot against Reading late in the game, and deserves to start.
Matt Phillips and Grady Diangana could start as the wingers once again. The Baggies’ attack has created chances, but the finishing needs to improve if they are to convert the draws into wins and make a serious push for promotion.
Bilic’s side recorded 20 shots last time, double the number of shots Reading managed, but could only manage a draw. The fans will hope that changes soon.
