West Bromwich Albion were shell-shocked by Watford as the Hornets pulled off a shocking 2-0 win over the Baggies. Tony Pulis’ side will now host Southampton in hope to rekindle their Premier League season. After taking four points from matches against Arsenal and Manchester United, Pulis’s side failed to replicate the same form against a struggling Watford.
West Brom’s previous best season was under Steve Clarke in 2012/13 and they can reach their best points tally this season of the Premier League era. They need to achieve six points more from the remaining seven matches to reach the 50 points mark which is not a very tough task.
A Europa League qualifying spot is also in the offing and West Brom needs to tighten up things in the next few matches. They are currently seven points adrift of the Toffees and need to hit the deck hard if they want to see themselves playing in Europe next season.
Predicted 4-1-4-1 West Bromwich Albion Lineup against Southampton
Defence
Ben Foster had a poor outing as Watford put in two goals past the ex-Manchester United keeper. However, he will try to shrug off the memory of the last match and start afresh against the Saints.
West Brom have scored 18 goals from set piece situations and McAuley has contributed heavily in those. The 37-year-old is Premier League’s highest scoring defender with six goals and possesses a significant threat from dead ball situations.
Jonny Evans has been in good form and his partnership with McAuley has been a vital cog in Baggies’ wonderful season so far.
Craig Dawson has been one of the most hardworking full backs of the English top tier and remains a valuable member of the first team.
Allan Nyom also has had his ups and downs and should make it to the left back position.
Midfield
Jack Livermore’s impressive form earned him a call-up to the England national team and the defensive midfielder would once again take his position in the holding midfield.
Darren Fletcher and Chris Brunt will be further up in the midfield. They will try to take the possession as much as in their favour.
Attack
Since his transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, Nacer Chadli has created a number of chances for the Baggies and has emulated the kind of form that saw him move to the White Hart Lane. He will be on the right flank to provide the width.
James McClean will get a chance on the left flank.
Salomon Rondon might get a chance to start his first game after regaining fitness.
