West Bromwich Albion are back in Sky Bet Championship action tonight (November 1), just three days after their dismal 2-0 defeat to Sheffield United. The game sees Carlos Corberan take to the dugout for just the second time as Baggies boss.
West Brom slumped to rock bottom of the league standings on the weekend, despite having more possession of the ball and more efforts on goal than the Blades. It made for a far-from-ideal start for Corberan, who will now be scratching his head as to how Albion can get out of their rather deep mess.
Blackpool, winning three of their last five fixtures, have been in great form and are currently just three points outside the top 10, in 15th place. In comparison, the Baggies haven’t even manage to win that many games all season - with just two victories in their opening 17 fixtures.
A big shift will be needed in response, otherwise relegation could start to become a real possibility. This change, we believe, should be a back to basics approach - something Corberan has tried and tested successfully in the past with Huddersfield Town.
The Spaniard massively overachieved with the Terriers last season, directing them to the playoff final at Wembley with some tactics far simpler than what we have seen used by West Brom recently. With that in mind, here is how we think the Baggies starting XI could look against Blackpool - in a 4-4-2 formation.
1. GK - Alex Palmer
Had a below-par display against Sheffield United with some poor communication and distribution. Most problems were in front of him in defence, though, so perhaps too harsh to punish Palmer specifically.
2. LB - Erik Pieters
It was between Pieters and Conor Townsend for this position. Considering Townsend’s mistake for the opening goal on Saturday, and the fact Pieters was a little better, we’re giving the former Burnley man the nod on this occasion.
3. CB - Dara O’Shea
Far from a good performance last time out but has been arguably Albion’s best defender this campaign. Change in formation could help the Irishman.
4. CB - Okay Yokuslu
Didn’t feature at all in the last game and so is well rested. Has had some very good games since signing and could do with a chance to regain his form. Worth a shot.