West Bromwich Albion are in action for the first time after the November international break as they play host to Ipswich Town on Saturday afternoon. High-flying and challenging Leicester City for the title, the Tractor Boys have made a blistering start to the season after their recent promotion from Sky Bet League One.
Albion, meanwhile, are on the fringes of the play-off spots following a 2-1 defeat at Southampton last time out. Three wins in the last five make for good reading but further momentum needs to be produced in order to surpass the threat of the likes of Sunderland, Preston North End and Hull City.
Carlos Corberan will likely stick with a four-back formation this weekend in order to maintain solidity against a top side. There are decisions to be made up top and in the centre of the park, though, with Josh Maja now back from his long-term injury and numerous midfielders battling to occupy just two spots.
With all that in mind, here are the 11 players we think will start at The Hawthorns this Saturday teatime, as well as brief explanations for every inclusion.
1. GK - Alex Palmer
In superb form at the moment and isn’t at risk of losing his place between the sticks.
2. RB - Darnell Furlong
Ahead of Pipa in the right-back pecking order still but will need to build consistency to keep it that way.
3. CB - Kyle Bartley
Scored Albion’s only goal in the 2-1 defeat at Southampton and beats Semi Ajayi for recent performances.
4. CB - Cedric Kipre
Looks to be the most undroppable of Albion’s centre halves at current and that’s easier said than done with lots of competition.