Defender makes first ever start as Chris Brunt names 10 changes - West Brom predicted XI vs Bournemouth

West Brom kick off their 2024/25 FA Cup campaign with a trip to Premier League side Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon.

The Baggies take on a team from the division they’re eager to get promoted to; it should be a good test for all involved but heavy rotation is likely from the recent 1-1 draw away at Swansea City. As much as a run in the FA Cup would be enjoyable, the Championship remains the priority and a big game awaits next weekend against Stoke City.

Chris Brunt and Damia Abella remain in joint interim charge as Albion are yet to hire a replacement for Carlos Corberan. Talks have begun with former Manchester United coach Rene Hake but no contender has made it past the interview stage as of yet. Brunt and Damia will decide on West Brom’s movements at Bournemouth as a result and we’re expecting a fresh look to the XI.

Opportunities are likely for youngsters and fringe players, especially as the Baggies were knocked out of the Carabao Cup at the first time of asking back in August. With that in mind, here’s the starting XI we reckon will be named at Vitality Stadium.

West Brom predicted lineup vs Bournemouth (FA Cup)

GK - Joe Wildsmith

The former Derby County man has had to wait a long time for an opportunity with the 2-1 defeat to Fleetwood in the Carabao Cup his most recent appearance.

RB - Deago Nelson

Brunt could award this Albion academy graduate a first ever senior start. Nelson featured off the bench at Fleetwood in August.

CB - Mason Holgate

More minutes are likely for Holgate as Kyle Bartley needs to continue to rest after so many games in quick succession over Christmas.

CB - Caleb Taylor

Kept at the club rather than loaned out again this season, Taylor could do with some game time and the FA Cup provides a great opening for just that.

LB - Gianluca Frabotta

The Italian has been behind Torbjorn Heggem and Callum Styles in the pecking order in the Championship but he’s done ok off the bench occasionally.

CM - Uros Racic

In and out of the team so far this campaign, Racic could get the nod ahead of Jayson Molumby and Ousmane Diakite.

CM - Alex Mowatt

The playmaker made his return off the bench at Swansea and he could regain full sharpness with a start here.

CAM - Harry Whitwell

Some youth in attacking midfield could benefit Albion with fresh ideas supplying the forwards. Whitwell has scored five goals in seven Premier League 2 matches so far.

RM - Tom Fellows

Albion’s wonderkid hasn’t been in the best of form in recent weeks but he’ll be more determined than anyone to put that right.

LM - Grady Diangana

Getting back into the swing of things after a host of injury and fitness woes, Diangana will be keen to play from the off.

ST - Devante Cole

Very much a utility player so far this term, Cole could have a golden opportunity to impress with Josh Maja likely to be rotated out.