Darren Moore to make 1 key change – Strongest 4-4-2 West Brom XI to face Middlesbrough

West Bromwich Albion lineup to face Middlesbrough

Darren Moore’s West Bromwich Albion have picked up 7 points from their opening 4 games and will be aiming to do one over league leaders Middlesbrough when they travel to the Riverside Stadium. Baggies striker Jay Rodriguez has scored 4 goals and is in good form going into this game.

West Brom must be well prepared given that they will be going up against a familiar face in Tony Pulis. The Middlesbrough manager was once in charge of the Baggies but there will be no love lost in this game.

Team News

After departing the Hawthorns with a bandaged hand, Kyle Bartley is expected to be fit for the trip to the Riverside game. Craig Dawson and Nacer Chadli are back in training but whether or not they will be named in the starting line-up is a huge doubt.

Probable West Brom XI

Manager: Darren Moore

Formation: 4-4-2

Sam Johnstone (GK)

The United loanee made a brilliant penalty save to boost his impression and should start this game.

Tosin Adarabioyo (RB)

The youngster has been impressive after breaking into the first-team setup. He’s a committed and diligent defender who seems to have nailed down his spot for now.

Kyle Bartley (CB)

Bartley should be back to face Boro and his presence at the back will be vital against a confident Middlesbrough team.

Ahmed Hegazi (CB)

The Egyptian boasts a 100% tackle success percentage so far and is the Baggies’ best defender. A sure starter.

Kieran Gibbs (LB)

Gibbs’ raids down the flank have proved largely beneficial for the Baggies, with the former Arsenal man racking up 2 assists in 4 games.

Matt Phillips (RM)

The Scottish international has been in terrific form so far, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist in his 4 games this season. Phillips possesses the ability to terrorise the Boro defenders.

Jake Livermore (RCM)

Livermore’s presence brings a sense of stability and security in the middle of the park. The midfielder’s experience will prove beneficial for the Baggies in this game.

Chris Brunt (LCM)

Brunt has thrived after being shifted to a more central role. He is yet to play a part in the goals but the Irishman’s supply is second to none.

Harvey Barnes (LM)

The young English midfielder has been making a name for himself since breaking into the first-team. He has already picked up 2 goals in 4 games for the club.

Dwight Gayle (ST)

Gayle picked up his first goal in the 7-1 thrashing of QPR and will be aiming to maintain his form.

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Jay Rodriguez (ST)

Jay Rodriguez has scored 4 goals already and is a definite starter for West Brom.