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.
9. RM - Matt Phillips
The best of a bad bunch in the last game, we’d argue. Missed a couple of opportunities but created plenty of chances for his teammates. He’s not the issue here. | Getty Images
10. ST - Karlan Ahearne-Grant
Many will be calling for Grant to leave the starting lineup after a lack of ability shown against Sheffield United and eight games without a goal. He’s been very isolated in those games, though, and could work better alongside another forward in a 4-4-2. | Getty Images
11. ST - Brandon Thomas-Asante
Showed a lot of desire off the bench at the weekend and had an effort cleared off the line. His movement - running off Grant’s shoulder - could cause Blackpool problems. | Getty Images