One of the surprise packages in the Premier League last season was definitely West Bromwich Albion. The Baggies finished the season in the tenth position with 45 points from 38 games, which is the most points they have ever collected in the league ever. And manager Tony Pulis should be given all the more credit for it simply the squad he had at his disposal.
The Wales manager has always maintained a safe approach towards the game, which surely makes the Baggies one of the most boring sides to watch. But, it hasn’t stopped them from getting the results, and the Welsh manager found an effective way keep the score sheet ticking from set-pieces. Given the under average attack Pulis had, their 43-goal feat is a decent achievement.
However, stepping up from here will be a huge challenge for the club. After finishing in the top half last season, qualifying for the Europa League should be a realistic step. And undoubtedly, West Brom would be needing some significant additions to get there. Here are the 3 things Pulis should do next season to challenge for the top six in the league-
Bring in agile wing backs- The average age of the back line of West Bromwich Albion is 30.5. And while Pulis might not be having problems at the moment in executing his strategies perfectly, taking the next step would surely require a deeper bench and more young feet.
In the likes of Jonny Evans, Alan Nyom, Gareth McAuley and Crag Dawson, Pulis has some disciplined, no-nonsense defenders, who stick to the defence without taking any risk. Pulis would need agile wing-backs, who could multi-task on the flanks. Hence, Pulis’ pursuit for Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs makes a lot of sense.
To Bring a potential replacement for Darren Fletcher – The shocking departure of Darren Fletcher to Stoke City has left West Brom with a large hole to fill. The towering midfielder was definitely the pivot of the team holding the defence and attack intact. His height and technique on the ball made him the ideal man for the Baggies.
It is difficult for West Brom to replace the 33-year-old, being unsuccessful in which could end spell a disaster for the Baggies.
To bring two-three quality forwards- Pulis’ side could score only 43 times in the whole season, which reflects the serious lack of quality they have up front. Except for Salomon Rondon, Robson-Kanu and Nacer Chadli, the team only has names who start up to eventually come back and defend well.
A towering centre-forward will be an immediate need this summer, followed by some hard-working attacking midfielders, who could create chances from the counter.
