West Bromwich Albion play host to Sunderland on what is the penultimate home matchday of the regular 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season.
Carlos Corberan’s men, back at The Hawthorns this Saturday for a fixture just three days after the last, will be eager to repeat success. It was a 2-0 win over Rotherham United on Wednesday, with John Swift and Brandon Thomas-Asante on the scoresheet to secure an important three points.
The gap to Coventry City in seventh and Preston North End in eighth is now nine points, though those two play-off chasers each have a game in hand. Winning this weekend would effectively seal the deal for West Brom finishing in the top six but the foot mustn’t be taken off the gas until it’s mathematically guaranteed.
Sunderland, originally top-six contenders, have been well off the pace in 2024 and look set for a disappointing mid-table finale. Down in 13th spot with just 53 points, the Black Cats are closer to the relegation zone than they are to the play-offs.
Corberan and his men will be keen to take advantage of Sunderland’s poor form with another positive result at the Shrine. Including a midfield change and a start for a midweek impresser, here’s the lineup we predict will take on Mike Dodds’ side this Saturday.
1. GK - Alex Palmer
Palmer has been excellent between the sticks, helping the Baggies to the third-best defensive record in the Championship, behind Leicester and Leeds.
2. RB - Darnell Furlong
Furlong, back to his best this season, has locked down the right-back spot. Summer loan signing Pipa hasn’t had a look-in.
3. CB - Cedric Kipre
Kipre, one of the most consistent players this campaign, impressed again midweek as Albion kept a clean sheet.
4. CB - Kyle Bartley
Bartley has started four consecutive matches after missing out against Bristol City. Erik Pieters remains on the bench for now.