‘Laboured’ – TV pundit says bold Bilic decision to drop West Brom star helped secure promotion
Dean Ashton has heaped praise on West Brom boss Slaven Bilic for making the decision to drop both Charlie Austin and Hal Robson-Kanu against Queens Park Rangers.
The Croatian went with Callum Robinson leading the line at the Hawthorns and was rewarded as the Sheffield United loanee scored in the 2-2 draw that sent the Baggies to the Premier League.
West Brom earnt their Premier League status on Wednesday evening after both Brentford and Fulham failed to win their respective games.
Ashton believes Robinson was outstanding in the draw, after criticising both Austin and Robson-Kanu for their inconsistency.
“They went big on Charlie Austin, and felt like he would be the striker to get them the goals,” he said on EFL on Quest.
“I thought he was laboured throughout the season. Hal Robson-Kanu came in, he’s always a willing worker, but maybe lacks the consistency.
“Tonight, I thought he made a big call Slaven Bilic, he went with Callum Robinson, who’s on loan from Sheffield United, I thought he was outstanding and they just about got over the line.”
Robinson got the all-important goal at the Hawthorns and made sure that his loan side will be brushing shoulders with the countries best next season.
The 25-year-old had five shots on goal, completed two dribbles and won a couple of his aerial battles according to WhoScored – as well as assisting Grady Diangana’s opener.
All eyes will switch to the future of the Republic of Ireland international this summer, with Robinson himself admitting that he will be returning to Sheffield United as it stands on Sky Sports after the clash.
In other West Brom news, Harvey Barnes has reacted to the Albion sealing their return to the Premier League
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