West Bromwich Albion manager Steve Bruce has already made some big calls ahead of Good Friday’s clash with Blackpool before a ball has even been kicked.
Wantaway England international goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has been given the boot from the starting line-up with the former Newcastle United boss confirming that David Button will start in goal for the next few games.
Johnstone has been linked with moves to Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Rangers and others over the past week as speculation around his future begins to ramp up ahead of his contract expiry in June.
And whilst the possibility of him remaining at the Hawthorns beyond this summer always remained slimmer than slim, Bruce’s decision to drop him from the squad for the run in all but confirms his time at the club is up.
Matt Phillips will also return to the squad for the fixture with the Tangerines but after such a long time out will have to settle for a place on the bench.
Here’s the line-up in full we feel Bruce could go with to get the three points and make it a good, Good Friday.
1. GK - David Button
Likely to start in place of wantaway Johnstone Photo: Alex Livesey
2. RWB - Darnell Furlong
Recall to the eleven. Suits wing-back far more than TGH.
3. CB - Semi Ajayi
Keeps his place on the right side of the three.
4. CB - Dara O’Shea
Deserves his place in the heart of defence. Bartley has been shaky for a while. Photo: GARETH COPLEY