West Bromwich Albion return from the October international break with a mission: to get back into the Sky Bet Championship top six as soon as possible. Carlos Corberan’s side will be eager to start an upward trajectory as a response to the 3-1 defeat to local rivals Birmingham City and there’s a chance for redemption as Albion face Plymouth Argyle at The Hawthorns on Saturday.
The Baggies are in 11th place as it stands, just two points below Birmingham in sixth. This weekend’s opponents, Argyle, are down in 18th after winning just one of their last five matches but have played some impressive football. Steven Schumacher’s side look like a sure bet to avoid relegation despite only just being promoted from Sky Bet League One as champions.
West Brom can’t underestimate Plymouth as a result and will need to put out a strong lineup for a good chance at a positive result. With that in mind, here are the 11 players we think Corberan will start in a three-back formation on Saturday, as well as brief explanations for each inclusion.
1. GK - Alex Palmer
Was in superb form before the defeat at Birmingham and will no doubt keep his place.
2. CB - Cedric Kipre
Starting to get a good run of games at the right of a back three, proving some doubters wrong somewhat.
3. CB - Kyle Bartley
Netted in the 4-0 win over Preston and has started the two matches since then.
4. CB - Erik Pieters
Stays in the team ahead of Semi Ajayi and Caleb Taylor, offering Albion an experienced head at left centre-back.