Two ‘weak links’ axed by Tony Mowbray but ‘enforcer’ returns - West Brom predicted XI vs Sunderland

West Brom return to The Hawthorns for a Championship showdown against Sunderland at lunchtime on Saturday.

The Baggies are in desperate need of a response after a troubling 1-0 defeat away at Norwich City last time out. That result threw the play-off race wide open as Norwich thrust themselves back into the mix and Middlesbrough were able to join Bristol City in behind level with West Brom’s 57-point tally.

Albion just haven’t been at the races in recent weeks, especially in the creative department. A reaction is required very quickly otherwise a top-six finish could fall through the Baggies’ grasp. To try and stop that from happening, Mowbray could make some big tweaks against his former club.

West Brom predicted lineup vs Sunderland

Without further ado, here’s the XI we reckon Mowbray will name against the Black Cats.

GK - Josh Griffiths: The young goalkeeper is yet to have an opportunity since his recall from Bristol Rovers. He deserves a chance and Joe Wildsmith has been a weak link, as harsh as that sounds.

RB - Darnell Furlong: Defensive enforcer Furlong is finally back from his three-match suspension and his return should come as a huge boost for Albion.

CB - Kyle Bartley: Vital for his experience and aerial dominance in the heart of defence, Bartley is one of Mowbray’s personal favourites. Mason Holgate, meanwhile, may sadly come under the weak link category.

CB: Torbjorn Heggem: Nobody has made more tackles for West Brom this term than Heggem. The Norwegian has to be up for the Player of the Season award.

LB - Callum Styles: Albeit not the strongest performer last time out, Styles is usually the best option at left-back. The Hungary international lucks to invert inside up and the field where possible.

RM - Tom Fellows: Albion’s star academy product was gutted to miss out on an England Under-21 call-up but can use that as extra motivation to see out the season in style.

CM - Alex Mowatt: A starter in 11 of Mowbray’s dozen games to date, Mowatt looks set to continue his run in the heart of the team. It’d be nice to add more goals and assists to his game.

CM - Jayson Molumby: The Irishman was effectively deployed as a second striker against Norwich but could shift a little further back into a more comfortable role.

LM - Mikey Johnston: Albeit hot and cold since signing permanently from Celtic, Johnston is superb on his day. He offers a bit more directness on the left.

CAM - Isaac Price: Settling in superbly following his £3 million move from Standard Liege, Price is well and truly living up to his tag. He’s played as a right-back recently but can go as a 10 again now that Furlong is back.

ST - Adam Armstrong: The Baggies’ deadline day signing from Southampton has scored just two goals in nine games, but if he can find form he will be pivotal in the race for a top-six finish.

In other news, Albion are set for a mega away turnout for a crucial Championship clash.