West Bromwich Albion tasted their first defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion in the last match and Tony Pulis will be hoping for a much better show when they host West Ham United this weekend.
Pulis’ team usually doesn’t play entertaining football but does enough to pick up the necessary three points. Pulis loves to put bodies in behind the ball to disorganise the opponents and it has been a pretty effective way to frustrate teams.
In the last season, The Baggies thrashed the Hammers 4-0 at the Hawthorns. However, there is a very little chance to repeat this feat given the current scenario.
Pulis will be happy to have Hal Robson-Kanu back at his disposal as the forward is back in contention having served his three-match suspension.
Predicted 4-1-4-1 West Bromwich starting lineup against West Ham United
Defence
Ben Foster is going to be the man in the goal. The former Manchester United keeper will be gearing up for a tough challenge in this match.
Johny Evans has gone on to prove himself as one of the best central defenders in the English top tier. Another Manchester United veteran, the 29-year-old has been the backbone of the Baggies backline in the last couple of seasons. He is very strong in the air and is a clean tackler of the ball. He is set to marshal the backline.
Newbie Ahmed Hegazy made a pretty strong start to his Premier League career and will continue the journey. Kieran Gibbs made his move from Arsenal to the Hawthorns and he could be handed his first start in the Baggies jersey. he will play at left back.
Craig Dawson will be on the right side of the defence.
Midfield
Grzegorz Krychowiak has done enough to earn him a place in the starting lineup. The 27-year-old would like to help his side with his mobility and tenacity on the pitch. He will start in the holding role and will try to move forward if the chance arises.
James Morrison will be ahead of him alongside Jake Livermore and the pair will have the opportunity to conquer the midfield.
Attack
James McClean could make his third start of the season. The 28-year-old winger will inject some much-needed pace from the left flank.
Matt Phillips will find his position on the right side. Salomon Rondon will make the way for Jay Rodriguez who will start upfront. Here is how they might line up:
