Tight defence, pressing opponents, playing long balls and the stewardship of a certain Tony Pulis lifted the West Bromwich Albion side last season. The Baggies accumulated 45 points in the last season which was their best performance in the Premier League so far.
Pulis maintained a pretty tough discipline throughout the season but the last two months were very tough as the Baggies failed to muster a single win. Added to this, Salomon Rondon’s poor form raised a few eyebrows so Pulis needs to sort out the issues before the season kicks off.
Pulis was never poised to play attractive football as his main aim has been how to grind out points and he has been doing this with utmost ease. The 59-year-old has a very impressive CV as in his entire managing career till now, his teams have never been relegated.
Strength
Defensive solidity has been the main strength for the Baggies last season. Tony Pulis’s side didn’t score many goals but they ensured they remained tight at the back. Gareth McAuley, Johny Evans, Craig Dawson and Allan Nyom all have contributed wholeheartedly with their individual performances.
Pulis noted a number of positive attributes last season and scoring from set piece situations has been one of them. Despite having the most aged backline, the defenders managed to chip in with some vital goals.
Weakness
The Baggies faced a lot of difficulty in scoring goals. Pulis doesn’t emphasize much on attack but you have to score goals as only defence won’t give you the requisite points. Rondon and Hal Robson-Kanu have been uninspiring in front of the goal and Bilic needs to address this problem.
The experienced gaffer has roped in Jay Rodriguez from Southampton and the onus will be on the player to deliver. He hasn’t shown that sharpness recently but Pulis could extract the best out of him by giving him some confidence and regular gametime.
Key Player
Johny Evans has been a revelation since his move to the Hawthorns from Old Trafford. The 29-year-old Northern Ireland international has revived his career under Pulis’ guidance and has re-established himself on the Premier League stage.
Expectations
A place in the top eight would be something they can realistically target after coming ever so close last season. Banking on last year’s reputation, Pulis would love to repeat the feat once again but he needs to ensure they stay on the path and inconsistency don’t hamper their preparation.
