West Brom’s season this time out has been quite an impressive one but their FA Cup campaign turned out to be a shocking one. Who would have expected the Tony Pulis’ in-form West Brom side will lose against Championship team Derby County in the third round of the FA Cup! Now, the Baggies will be up against Spurs on Saturday in the Premier League and they do have what it takes to stun the Lilywhites.
Spurs have been in brilliant form of late since their loss to Manchester United and are major favourites for the game. The Baggies won their last two Premier League games against Southampton and Hull City after two back to back losses against Manchester United and Arsenal. A win will give Pulis’ boys a major confidence and a chance to leapfrog ahead of Everton.
Here is the predicted West Bromwich Albion lineup against Derby County.
Defence
Ben Foster, one of the best keepers in the division, will be on duty between the sticks. Gareth McAuley has been a trusted man in West Brom defence for a long time now and will certainly start at the heart of the defence. Pulis will demand a good game from the Northern Irishman if he hopes to stun Spurs.
The 37-year-old will be partnered by Jonny Evans at central defence who is all set to come back to the starting XI after shaking off a knock. Craig Dawson will start at right-back. Chris Brunt has a minor knock to shake off and should start at left-back ahead of Allan Nyom.
Midfield
Claudio Yacob is a key player of the Baggies because of what he brings to the game. The Argentine will keep his place at the base of midfield and will be looking to destroy the Spurs attack. Skipper Darren Fletcher will accompany the Argentine midfield enforcer in the middle of the park. We expect club-record signing Never Chadli to keep his place in the number ten position. Chadli will be keen to hurt his former employers when he goes back to White Hart Lane.
Attack
We expect Matt Phillips to start on the right-flank. The winger has created most goals for the Baggies this season and will be looking to impress against Spurs. Experienced James Morrison is expected to start on the left flank. Jose Salomon Rondon’s position in the team in certain and he will start up front.
