West Bromwich Albion have made an impressive start to the 2023/24 season, cementing themselves as Championship play-off contenders and looking likely to be top-six finishers. Three points currently separate Albion from seventh-placed Sunderland, while six teams are within half a dozen points, meaning consistency must be maintained to keep position.
Carlos Corberan has done a superb job to first steady the ship and then push the football club in the right direction, but injuries to key players have halted his progress. West Brom don't have a huge budget but there may be no choice but to make a few new signings in January.
Transfer speculation hasn't been as rife as usual for this time of year but there are still some rumours emerging to get an idea of who Albion could end up bringing in. With that in mind, we've taken a look through the latest to form a potential starting XI for the start of February.
5. LB: Conor Townsend
Townsend spent much of the start of the campaign on the bench but has regained a place in the side following Matt Phillips’ injury and a switch to a back four. | Getty Images
6. CM: Okay Yokuslu
The Turk offers physicality and assurance at the base of midfield. Nathaniel Chalobah struggles to get starts due to Yokuslu’s presence. | Getty Images
7. CM: Alex Mowatt
Corberan’s favoured player in the number eight role, Mowatt has done well to cement a spot ahead of Ireland international Jayson Molumby. | Getty Images
8. CAM: John Swift
Swift, when fit and sharp, can be one of the most creative players in the team. He’s also a fine finisher when brimming with confidence. | Getty Images