How West Brom’s ambitious new-look side could line up if late summer window deals go through
West Brom are hoping to secure a place in the top-flight for the first time since 2021
West Brom manager Ryan Mason got off to a dream start by guiding his team to a 1-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers at the Hawthorns. Isaac Price opened the scoring after 15 minutes in what was a well-deserved home victory for the Baggies.It’s still early days for Mason but fans can take some comfort from the fact that West Brom looked like an organised unit defensively and the more threatening in front of goal of the two sides.
Mason has so far made subtle changes to the team that finished in mid-table under Carlos Corberan and later Tony Mowbray by signing three first team players and a pair of up and coming reserve team stars.
It’s likely they’ll be even more signings before the window slams shut on 1 September as the former Tottenham assistant looks to get his team equipped for a promotion challenge. With that in mind, based on recent rumours, we take a look at how West Brom could line-up once the window closes.
Goalkeeper and defence
GK: Josh Griffiths: The battle for the No.1 spot seems to be an intriguing one at the Hawthorns this year. As it stands, Josh Griffiths is seen as the first choice ahead of Joe Wildsmith. He impressed on loan at Bristol Rovers and is believed to be on an upward trajectory.
RB: Darnell Furlong: The 29-year-old was sent off on the opening day against Blackburn but is likely to be back in the fold pretty quickly after suspension. He’s experienced promotion in the past and often chips in with goals and assists.
CB: Nat Phillips: The former Liverpool centre back is expected to be a key figure in defence following his move from Anfield. He was top-drawer against Blackburn and won the majority of his aerial duels.
CB: Torbjorn Heggem: The 26-year-old had an excellent season last year. He’s been linked with a move away but could be crucial if he’s retained in helping the club get back into a top six spot.
LB: Callum Styles: The versatile 25-year-old is expected to feature predominantly at left-back this season. He did a steady job at times last year, chipping in with three goals and one assist in 34 matches.
Midfield and attack
CM: James McConnell (potential signing): Liverpool prospect James McConnell has emerged as a potential target for West Brom this summer. The 20-year-old, capable of playing as a number six, an eight or a 10, has gradually been making his breakthrough at Anfield, with 13 senior appearances to date and looks like a decent talent. Birmingham World understands he could be signed on loan this summer.
CM: Alex Mowatt: The former Leeds United star remains a key presence in the middle of the park and is expected to feature regularly throughout the campaign. He contributed seven goals and two assists in 43 matches last season in a fairly productive campaign.
CAM: Isaac Price: The 21-year-old showed promise towards the end of last season and looks set to be trusted with regular minutes under Ryan Mason this term.
RM: Dapo Afolayan: (Potential signing): A number of Championship clubs, including West Brom, have expressed an interest in St Pauli winger Dapo Afolayan. The former West Ham man has previously played in the third tier with Bolton Wanderers.
LM: Tom Fellows: Everton’s decision to sign Jack Grealish has arguably improved West Brom’s chances of retaining Tom Fellows. The England Under-21 international has already showcased plenty of quality at this level and could be one of the stars of the division this term.
ST: Aune Heggebø: The Norwegian led the line ahead of Josh Maja on matchday one and started well by registering an assist. He’s likely to play plenty of matches and will hope to get off the mark in the near future with a goal.