Our landlord and punters alike here at the Transfer Tavern have been massively impressed by the start that seventh placed West Brom have made this season under Tony Pulis.
The Welsh manager made some great additions over the summer with Matt Phillips arguably being the best as he’s seen himself gain many plaudits during the rise of the Baggies this term.
The likes of Nacer Chadli have also caught the eye, too, and so it’s a good time to be a West Brom fan right now.
Last time out the Midlands side beat Watford at the Hawthorns 3-1 and this weekend sees them face league leaders Chelsea, who will be on a high having beat Manchester City in their last game by the same scoreline.
It will for sure be a tough ask for West Brom but a good result is not out of the question as they have shocked many so far this year.
With that in mind, then, our landlord reckons this West Brom XI can surprise Chelsea this weekend…
GK: Ben Foster
Ben Foster has been pivotal so far for the Baggies this season – making some tremendous saves at important times.
He will have his work cut out against high flying Diego Costa, but with his experience and ability he could be key.
RB: Craig Dawson
Dawson’s done a very solid job down that right side for the Baggies, typical of Tony Pulis’ team.
He’ll have his work cut out keeping Eden Hazard quiet but if he can West Brom will have a chance.
CB: Jonny Evans
The all-round brilliant central defender has been a key player in the club’s rise.
The former Manchester United man is quality both defensively and when called on to go forward and attack from corners.
CB: Gareth McAuley
The Northern Irish defender has formed a formidable partnership with Evans at the back for the Baggies.
He’s not too shy of finding the back of the net either and could be a threat at Stamford Bridge!
LB: Allan Nyom
The former Watford defender has been a revelation since his arrival in the Summer.
Not known really for his time at Watford as a stand out star he has been a brilliant addition by Pulis.
CDM: Darren Fletcher
The former Man United man has been astonishing since his arrival from Old Trafford.
It’s easy to see why he was so highly regarded by Red Devils legend Sir Alex Ferguson as he is a natural born leader.
CDM: Claudio Yacob
A long serving player and a favourite among the fans at the Hawthorns for the passion he shows for the club.
Whilst on the pitch he sometimes gets into trouble there is no denying his abilities but he’ll still have his work cut out in the heart of midfield against Chelsea.
RAM: Matt Phillips
The winger has been superb for his side this season and has won many plaudits for his performances.
Another solid game could see him cause some serious problems for the hard-to-beat Chelsea defence.
CAM: James Morrison
A great professional of the game he has been a brilliant servant to West Brom and is a key player in the hole.
He’s got a cracking shot on him, too, so Chelsea had better beware if he gets the ball.
LAM: Nacer Chadli
A great addition at the end of the summer window by Pulis. The former Spurs man would love to beat Chelsea after they defeated the Lilywhites last term to end their title chances.
The Belgian has been an absolute revelation since his arrival and he should go straight into the side against the Blues.
ST: Salomon Rondon
The big striker has been a top player for the club so far and looks set to be a real fan favourite.
He’s been the main man up top for the club and he will be a handful for Gary Cahill, David Luiz and Cesar Azpilicueta.
Agree Baggies fans? Let us know below!
