West Bromwich Albion will expect to take their unbeaten streak to five games when they host AFC Bournemouth, who have failed to win in their last eight games in all competition. The Baggies are currently sitting in the eighth position with 37 points.
Bournemouth have lost their last three games, taking just two points from a possible 18 this year. They have also been ousted by League One side Millwall from the FA Cup. Eddie Howe’s team have dropped to 14th in the League table, just six points above the relegation zone. Failing to win this game will push Howe’s men to real trouble.
Having won against them in the reverse fixture, when Callum Wilson broke a scoreless tie with his goal in the 79th minute at Vitality Stadium, the Cherries must be confident of bagging three points again this time.
Team News
West Bromwich Albion- West Bromwich Albion are having a massive advantage as far as players’ fitness is concerned. The only concern for Pulis will be on-loan Everton defender Brendan Galloway.
Bournemouth- The Cherries’ long-term injuries include striker Callum Wilson and goalkeeper Adam Federici. While the striker has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, the goalkeeper is still recovering from surgery on his damaged knee cartilage. Both aren’t expected to feature this season.
The absence of Captain Simon Francis will continue to be a big concern for Eddie Howe. He is still recovering from a hamstring problem. On the positive front, Arsenal loanee Jack Wilshere is expected to be in contention for the game after limping out of Bournemouth’s last defeat against Manchester City.
Prediction Line-ups
West Bromwich Albion (4-1-4-1) – Foster; Brunt, Dawson, McAuley, Nyom; Livermore; Chadli, Morrison, Fletcher, Phillips; Rondon
Bournemouth (4-1-4-1) – Boruc; Daniels, Cook, Cargill, Smith; Surman; Fraser, Wilshere, Arter, Ibe; King
Key Players
West Bromwich Albion- Tony Pulis will once again bank on their forward Salomon Rondon. Although the striker has been experiencing a 10-game goal drought, he is the best option the manager has. He last found the net when he bagged a hat-trick against Swansea on December 14 last year. And with Nacer Chadli fit, there is always a chance he gets his name on the score sheet.
Bournemouth- Jack Wilshere could be a danger man for the Baggies. He is capable of unlocking their adamant defence with his superb passing. Cherries’ Joshua King will also be a continuous threat.
Odds
West Bromwich Albion @ 2.1
Draw @ 3.4
Bournemouth @ 4.00
