View: Sky Sports update on Preston doubt could hand West Brom massive boost in clash
Sky Sports have reported that Preston North End midfielder Daniel Johnson is a doubt for the trip to West Brom on Tuesday night.
The influential midfielder is struggling with a knee problem and could potentially miss out, something which would be a massive blow for the away side.
West Brom will be missing a midfielder of their own in the clash, with Romaine Sawyers set to start his three-match suspension for the red card he picked up against Bristol City.
Johnson is an influential playmaker in the heart of Preston’s side, and usually makes the Lilywhites tick when he is in possession.
The 27-year-old has scored 10 goals and added five assists, that’s more goals than the Baggies top-scorer at this moment in time.
According to WhoScored, Johnson averages 1.5 shots on goal as well as 1.3 key passes in each outing – numbers that highlight his influence despite playing a so-called deeper role.
Johnson hasn’t been ruled out as of yet though, and it could be a massive boost if he were to be. Should he not, it will be down to the superb Jake Livermore to keep him quiet.
We have no doubts that his recent level of performance will continue on Tuesday night, and he could play a massive role in shepherding the influential Johnson out of the game.
Livermore was everywhere in the 3-0 win against Bristol City and even had four shots on goal [WhoScored]. Outside of that, he also completed a magnificent 11 tackles – more than double the number he has managed in any other game.
Preston losing Johnson could be a massive boost for the Baggies, but either way, we back Livermore to keep him quiet should he be classed as fit to play.
In other West Brom news, this Sky Sports pundit has predicted the outcome of the upcoming clash against Preston