West Bromwich Albion Set for FA Cup Clash with Norwich City
West Bromwich Albion will shift their focus to the FA Cup this Saturday afternoon as they travel to face fellow Championship side Norwich City in the fourth round. Head coach Eric Ramsay, who remains winless since taking charge at the club, is eager to break that streak and boost team morale. While the Championship remains the top priority, with the Baggies hovering just two points above the relegation zone, the FA Cup offers a valuable chance to build confidence and potentially advance to the next stage.
Potential Lineup Changes and Youth Opportunities
Despite recent defensive improvements, including clean sheets in matches against Stoke City and Birmingham City, West Brom has struggled with creativity and energy in attack. To address this, Ramsay is likely to introduce some rotation for fitness reasons and give younger players a chance to shine. This could see several changes to the starting XI, with a focus on injecting fresh talent into the lineup.
Here is the predicted lineup for West Brom at Carrow Road:
- GK - Josh Griffiths: The young goalkeeper, who has been behind new signing Max O’Leary, may get an opportunity to play in the cup competition.
- RB - Alex Williams: Expected to be named in the matchday squad, Williams could make only his third senior appearance for West Brom.
- CB - Alfie Gilchrist: The former Chelsea defender might start at centre-back due to Nat Phillips being ruled out with a concussion, amid an ongoing injury crisis.
- CB - Charlie Taylor: Filling in during Chris Mepham’s absence, Taylor has performed well as an auxiliary centre-back and is likely to retain his place.
- LB - Callum Styles: After a man-of-the-match performance against Stoke, the Hungary international is set to start, even in the cup.
- CM - Ousmane Diakite: Providing physicality in midfield, Diakite could come in for a rare start as a utility option.
- CM - Alex Mowatt: In a toss-up with Jayson Molumby, Mowatt is predicted to partner Diakite, possibly due to rest needs.
- RW - Ollie Bostock: The highly-rated prospect, who fans have been calling for, may finally get his chance in the starting XI.
- CAM - Harry Whitwell: Another youngster in contention, Whitwell has been around the senior team and could get the nod over Isaac Price.
- LW - Mikey Johnston: Returning to full fitness, Johnston might play for around an hour to prepare for upcoming Championship fixtures.
- ST - Daryl Dike: Rotating back in for Aune Heggebo, Dike is still working his way back to full form after long-term injuries.
This lineup reflects a blend of experience and youth, aiming to spark creativity while managing player fitness. A victory could not only secure progression to the fifth round but also lift spirits within the squad as they navigate a challenging season.
