Bournemouth will take on Tony Pulis’ West Bromwich Albion on Saturday in the fourth game week of the Premier League. The Cherries did not have a good start to their season but will look to start fresh after the international break. Eddie Howe’s side are still without a win in the Premier League this season after three outings. With two losses and one draw to show for only, the Cherries must improve really soon.
Even though West Brom have managed four points from three games this season, the Cherries will be favourites for the game. The points tally speaks otherwise, right? But yes, if Eddie Howe plays his cards right, Bournemouth should not find it hard to get their first win of the season. Here are the reasons why Bournemouth are favourites for the clash-
The presence of Jack Wilshere
Eddie Howe believes in a front-footed attacking minded football and even though the Cherries finished lowly at 16th last season, their fearless and direct football had been praised. Eddie Howe has bolstered his squad throughout the summer adding quality and depth but it was on the deadline day when Bournemouth secured probably their biggest ever signing in the club’s history. Arsenal loanee Jack Wilshere adds a wealth of creativity in Bournemouth midfield and can win games on his own.
Howe has to deal carefully with the 24-year-old though. The highly-gifted England international had always struggled with injury problems throughout his career but the last two years had been the worst for him. The two-time scorer of Premier League Goal of the Year will be a big boost to the Cherries with his quality in midfield and his impact puts West Brom on the back foot.
West Brom’s poor away record
West Brom have been poor on their travels. In the last two seasons, they have won just eight away games out of 38 scoring just 28 goals in the process. Tony Pulis’ side started their season with an away win against Crystal Palace, though. Their overall poor away record puts Bournemouth on the driving seat in this game. Even though Bournemouth are not best at home, they should be able to see off the Baggies at Dean Court.
An uneven contest between West Brom’s ageing defence and Bournemouth’s agile attack
Bournemouth are a youthful team blessed with fleet-footed attackers like Jordon Ibe, Callum Wilson and Joshua King. The average age of West Brom’s central defenders is 32.33 and they might struggle to cope up with the pace of the Bournemouth attackers. With Wilshere is midfield providing the creativity, the trio will be looking to do the damage on every opportunity. It looks like an uneven contest on paper.
