West Brom v Aston Villa predictions: West Brom line-up

West Brom would be aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg, when they welcome Aston Villa to the Hawthorns for the second leg of the Championship playoff semifinal.

James Shan’s men took the lead at Villa Park and played well in the first half. However, things switched in favour of their opponents after the break.

Dwight Gayle scored the away goal for the Baggies on Saturday, but he received a red card later in that game. He is now banned for the playoff final as well, if Albion manage to get past the Villans.

Team News

Dwight Gayle is banned for this game. The good news is Stefan Johansen and Craig Dawson should be fit for this game, despite being taken off due to respective issues on Saturday (h/t Birmingham Mail).

Gareth Barry and Jake Livermore are not available for this game due to a knee injury and foot injury respectively.

Predicted West Brom XI

Formation – 3-4-2-1

Manager – James Shan

Sam Johnstone (GK)

He is their first-choice keeper and should be in goal tomorrow night.

Craig Dawson (RCB)

He was forced off at the break due to concussion fears on Saturday. However, the club has confirmed that there are no such issues and the player should be fit to start again.

Kyle Bartley (CB)

The first leg of this tie was probably one of his better games in an Albion shirt. He would be hoping to do the same tomorrow.

Ahmed Hegazi (LCB)

The Egyptian star is their star defender and is a certain starter for the game.

Mason Holgate (RWB)

The loanee from Everton struggled a bit early on in the first leg but managed his game well. He is expected to keep his place in the team.

Chris Brunt (CM)

The captain did well to stifle the danger of John McGinn and control the midfield for most parts of the game on Saturday. He would be looking to perform on the same lines tomorrow night.

Stefan Johansen (CM)

He played well in the first leg but was taken off due later in the game fearing an injury. It seems as though the Norwegian will be fit for the second leg.

Kieran Gibbs (LWB)

The former Arsenal man has had a few quiet games off late. Albion fans would be hoping he is at his best for tomorrow’s game.

Matt Phillips (RW)

Made his first start in two months on Saturday and looked rusty at times. He is still one of West Brom’s vital player though and would start tomorrow as well.

Jay Rodriguez (ST)

With Gayle and Hal Robson-Kanu out, the goal-scoring responsibility needs to be shouldered by Rodriguez for the second leg.

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Jacob Murphy (LW)

Gayle generally starts on the left-wing, however, with him being suspended, Murphy seems a viable option to replace him.