At the beginning of the season, Darren Moore’s West Bromwich Albion were amongst the favourites to secure promotion back to the Premier League.
Now, despite only sitting in 5th position, five points behind league leaders Norwich City, the interest in the side has cooled somewhat. And we believe that will work to West Brom’s advantage -just like it did at the end of last season.
Before being relegated, the Baggies beat Manchester United, Newcastle and Tottenham, and took points from Liverpool. All because the pressure was off.
With West Brom’s form picking up again recently, Moore has a great opportunity heading into the January transfer window to clearly evaluate issues which need to be addressed, and adding a couple of new faces could well help…
James Tavernier
West Brom have really struggled at the back this year conceding 25 goals in 17 games – the worst record in the top half of the table – so their interest in James Tavernier makes perfect sense (as per Birmingham Mail).
The Rangers club captain has been one of the standout performers in Steven Gerrard’s side, providing an outlet in both attack and defence on the right-hand side of the pitch.
As a very capable tackler, with excellent pace, tactical awareness, and wicked distribution, it’ll be difficult to tempt Tavernier away from Gerrard who’ll be keen on keeping hold of his star player whilst he makes a name for himself as a manager.
West Brom have already had a number of bids rejected in the summer, but we doubt this will stop them trying again come January…
Lewis Archer
The Baggies look set to take a punt on 20-year old forward Lewis Archer.
The Hednesford Town talent could well join the exclusive list of non-league talents who have achieved the dream by making it from the lower leagues to the top level of English football.
He’s incredibly quick on his feet and can play either as a striker or on the wing, with an eye for goal.
West Brom aren’t exactly short of attacking options at the moment, nor are they struggling for goals, but with rumours flying that Jay Rodriguez could be the subject of a January Premier League plunder, his acquisition would be smart.
