Is it the end of the line for Steve Bruce at West Brom ahead of Luton clash?

West Bromwich Albion have had a poor start to the 2022-23 season under Steve Bruce, winning one of their opening 12 Championship games.

The Baggies were beaten 1-0 by Preston North End on Wednesday, a result that saw them drop into the relegation zone.

Albion’s form this campaign has led to questions as to whether Bruce is the right man to take the club forward ahead of their upcoming league game against Luton Town on Saturday.

West Brom are without a win in their last seven fixtures and face a Hatters side who are unbeaten in four league outings.

Bruce’s record at Albion

The 61-year-old was appointed as Baggies manager in February on an 18-month contract with the club fifth in the Championship.

Life at the Hawthorn began terribly for Bruce, losing four of his opening five games in charge of the club, drawing the other.

Results improved for Albion in March, with Bruce guiding them to a four-match unbeaten run, including a 1-0 home win over eventual champions Fulham.

However, three defeats and one draw in their last eight fixtures last season saw West Brom finish 10th in the table, eight points off Luton in the last play-off place.

The campaign has been a tough one for Baggies’ fans, having also been eliminated from the League Cup in the second round by League One side Derby County.

To date Bruce has taken charge of 31 games as Albion boss in all competitions, winning eight, while drawing 11 and losing 12.

Should he be given time to turn things around?

West Brom’s current run of form is concerning, especially with their aim of returning to the Premier League at the earliest opportunity,

The result hasn’t been going Bruce’s way and it could be argued, if he were to be dismissed, it would be the right decision for the club.

However, the 61-year-old has a proven track record of achieving promotion from the Championship having done so twice with Birmingham City and Hull City.

On the other hand, results are what a manager should be judged on, leading to speculation he could be the next boss to be sacked in the second tier.

What’s next for Albion if Bruce is sacked?

If the Baggies’ hierarchy decided Bruce isn’t the right man to take the club forward after their poor start to the season, then it would be vital they replace him with someone who can steady the ship with an aim of climbing the table.

Former Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Rob Edwards is favourite to take over at the Hawthorns if Bruce is dismissed, while ex-Burnley manager Sean Dyche is also linked with the club.

Verdict

The Albion board need to decide Bruce’s future as soon as possible if they want to improve their form.

As of writing, Bruce looks set to take charge of their clash with Luton on Saturday. The game will likely decide his fate at the Hawthorns, with another defeat or draw expected to end his tenure as West Brom boss.