New West Bromwich Albion head coach Eric Ramsay faces a baptism of fire as his tenure begins with a Friday night Championship clash against high-flying Middlesbrough.
A Daunting Debut for Ramsay
The Baggies head into the match in poor form, having lost four of their final five games under previous boss Ryan Mason. This slump has left the club languishing in 18th place, just seven points above the relegation zone and with their play-off hopes looking increasingly distant.
History is also against the new manager. Only one of the last six permanent West Brom managers has won their first league game in charge, a statistic Ramsay will be desperate to overturn. He will hope to translate his experience of overachieving with Minnesota United in Major League Soccer to the challenge of the English second tier.
Predicted Lineup and Tactical Changes
With no new signings yet through the door, Ramsay must work with his existing squad. He is expected to make several adjustments to the starting eleven, with up to four changes from the side that last featured.
In goal, Josh Griffiths is predicted to keep his spot after his penalty-saving heroics last weekend, despite Joe Wildsmith's recent involvement.
The defence could see a significant tweak. Chelsea loanee Alfie Gilchrist may be handed a start at right-back, while summer signing George Campbell – a player Ramsay may know from his MLS days – could partner the ever-present Nat Phillips in central defence. Experienced Charlie Taylor is likely to continue at left-back.
The midfield is reshaped by necessity due to several absences. With Ousmane Diakite on compassionate leave and Alex Mowatt, Jayson Molumby, and Toby Collyer injured, Polish international Krystian Bielik could drop into a defensive midfield role. Callum Styles is expected to retain his place in a more advanced central position.
Attack Holds the Key to Success
In the forward areas, the creative burden will fall on Mikey Johnston, who has provided nine assists this season, making him one of the Championship's most potent creators. He will be supported on the opposite flank by Aston Villa loanee Samuel Iling-Junior, who could face his former club Middlesbrough.
Through the middle, Northern Ireland international Isaac Price will offer a goal threat from an attacking midfield role, having netted five times this term. Leading the line is predicted to be Norwegian striker Aune Heggebø, who has eight goals this season and may replace Josh Maja.
The match, scheduled for Friday night, 15th January 2026, represents a massive challenge for Eric Ramsay. His team selection and tactical approach will be scrutinised as he attempts to engineer a crucial new manager bounce for the struggling Baggies.
