According to reports, West Bromwich Albion are in hot pursuit of Southampton’s forgotten forward Jay Rodriguez, as the Baggies look to strengthen their attack after what looks like a promising end to the season. The English international had an underwhelming season this year with the Saints and will definitely want to move out in search of first team chances.
Under Pulis, while Baggies have done quite decently this season, they have been largely toothless in front of goal. And the Wales manager had little to no concern regarding it as they have dealt mainly in set-pieces to win games. However, with the mid-table teams getting stronger every season, West Brom will need to have enough arsenal n their squad now, so that they can hit big opponents on the break.
And given how effective Pulis is at bringing the best out of unknown talents, Rodriguez might do the trick at Hawthorns. West Brom have largely depended on Nacer Chadli and Matt Phillips to do the offensive duties and when Chadli was injured, James Mclean came into the equation. With just three men in the attack, the Baggies have done really well to be sitting in the eighth position collecting 44 points from 33 games.
And to better it next season, the one thing that the Baggies must do is score more goals. Albion have scored 39 goals this season, which needs to change if they are willing to challenge for a position for the Europa League qualification.
Rodriguez has been largely a bench player for Claude Puel this season, which explains his mere five goals and two assists in all competition for Southampton. The former Burnley player has had a difficult start at the South Coast club with repetitive injuries and finally looks in shape now. However, his first team chances have come scarcely and he could well look for it elsewhere.
He is 27, and as a winger has just four or five seasons to play at the top level. He has earned just one national cap so far, and if he wants to play any role in the upcoming 2018 World Cup, then the next season seems like the perfect platform to perform. If West Brom are willing to give him that, then we can jolly well see him leaving St. Mary’s at the end of the season.
A left wing by nature, Rodriguez can play as a centre-forward as well. He likes to cut in from the flanks and take shots at little openings. Although his finishing and cross abilities aren’t that impressive, he can be influential with his short passes.
