It is FA Cup time this weekend as Premier League clubs start their FA Cup campaign from the third round. West Bromwich Albion did not get the easiest of fixtures to start their Cup run with, although it’s not the toughest one too. The Baggies will travel to Pride Park on Saturday to face Championship giants Derby County and we can expect a cracker of a game.
The Rams have been in pretty decent form this season but had a disappointing outing against Norwich City at Carrow Road on Monday. Steven McLaren’s side’s 10-game unbeaten streak came to an end as the Rams lost 3-0 at the hands of the Canaries.
West Brom are not looking a typical Tony Pulis side this campaign. The Welsh manager has always been criticised for his ultra-defensive approach to the game and probably wanted to make a statement and has certainly made that. They are having an excellent campaign in the Premier League this time out and will be keen to have a long run in the FA Cup. The two teams have faced each other 15 times till date and it has been a close contest. West Brom
The two teams have faced each other 15 times till date and it has been a close contest. West Brom have won 6 times while Derby have won 4 times. Five games have ended in stalemates.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 West Brom Lineup Vs Derby County
Defence
We expect backup keeper Boaz Myhill to start under the bar in place of Ben Foster. Craig Dawson has been almost ever-present at right-back this season and should get a much-deserved rest. Allan Nyom should take his position. Jonny Evans is missing through an injury which means that Gareth McAuley and Jonas Olsson are likely to start at the heart of the defence. Everton loanee Brendan Galloway should get a start at left-back.
Midfield
Claudio Yacob is an indispensable member of the team thanks to the defensive duty he offers. He should keep his place in the middle of the park. We expect skipper Darren Fletcher to get rested against Derby and Craig Gardner should take his place. James Morrison should start in an advanced midfield role.
Attack
Youngster Jonathan Leko, a highly-rated attacker, is likely to get a start on the right flank. We expect James McClean to get a start on the right flank. Jose Salomon Rondon has played an awful lot of games up front this season and is likely to get rested against Derby. Hal Robson-Kanu is likely to fill in for him.
