Bilic to go with an unchanged XI from Saturday? How we think West Brom could line up vs Bristol

published

20/2/2020 1:00 AM

West Brom Prediction: Probable XI to face Bristol City

West Brom travel to Ashton Gate to face Bristol City on Saturday, hoping to retain the top spot in the Championship table. After winning three consecutive games, the Baggies drew 2-2 with Nottingham Forest last weekend. The result saw them drop points but Slaven Bilic’s side still hold a four-point lead at the top of the table. However, Bilic and co. will be keen to get back to winning ways at the weekend by beating Bristol City, who are currently seventh in the standings.

Team News

Jonathan Leko has been ruled out for the rest of the season – and the beginning of next – after an ACL injury. West Brom don’t have fresh injury concerns ahead of the game.

West Brom Prediction: Probable XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Sam Johnstone (GK)

Johnstone is West Brom’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper and will look to keep a clean sheet against Bristol City.

Dara O’Shea (RB)

O’Shea has become a regular starter at right-back over the last few weeks. He’ll retain his place in Bilic’s starting XI.

West Brom defender Kyle Bartley instructs his players. (Getty Images)

Semi Ajayi (CB)

Ajayi will have to be at the top of his game to keep the Bristol attackers at bay at the weekend.

Kyle Bartley (CB)

Bartley had a poor game against Nottingham Forest last time out, scoring an own goal. He’ll be keen to redeem himself with a strong display at Ashton Gate.

Conor Townsend (LB)

Townsend has done very well over the last few weeks and will retain his position at left-back.

Jake Livermore (RCM)

Livermore has been an important player under Bilic this season with his performances in the middle of the park.

West Brom midfielder Jake Livermore in action. (Getty Images)

Romaine Sawyers (CDM)

There’s no doubt that Sawyers is one of the most important players for the Baggies and he is sure to start against Bristol City this weekend.

Filip Krovinovic (LCM)

Krovinovic has been impressive in recent weeks for the Baggies, adding creativity to the side. He’ll complete West Brom’s midfield trio.

Matheus Pereira (RW)

Pereira has lit up the Championship and established himself as arguably the division’s best player this season, with the playmaker playing a key role in West Brom’s bid for promotion. He’s a certainty to start on the right flank.

Hal Robson-Kanu of West Bromwich Albion celebrates with teammate Callum Robinson after scoring their teams second goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between West Bromwich Albion and Nottingham Forest at The Hawthorns on February 15, 2020 in West Bromwich, England. (Getty Images)

Callum Robinson (LW)

Robinson has made an instant impact since joining from Sheffield United on loan in January. He has appeared four times since his arrival, netting one goal in the process. The forward will no doubt be in for another start.

Hal Robson-Kanu (ST)

Robson-Kanu hasn’t scored a lot of goals this season but his energy and intensity make him ideal for Bilic’s style of play. The Welshman could be preferred ahead of Austin in the No.9 role once again.