View: Bilic to axe 29y/o and switch formation in big change – Predicted West Brom XI v Man Utd
West Brom take on Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday, with the Baggies still searching for their first Premier League win of the season.
Slaven Bilic’s side came close last time out against Tottenham Hotspur, but conceded a late winner to a Harry Kane header.
However, they have another opportunity now to take the scalp of an established big six side, and face a Manchester United side that have lost three of their opening four Premier League matches at home.
Despite criticism for his part in Kane’s winner, Sam Johnstone should continue in goal and deserves the chance to redeem himself for the error.
Ahead of him, Conor Townsend and Darnell Furlong will remain as the full-backs, but Bilic could move to a 4-3-3 to accommodate the returning Matheus Pereira.
This means 29-year-old Kyle Bartley drops out, with Semi Ajayi and Dara O’Shea trusted in the centre. It would be a risky move, but their additional athleticism compared to Branislav Ivanovic and Kyle Bartley could be crucial in handling the threat of Anthony Martial, and Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford if they are fit.
In midfield, the Baggies will most likely continue with the triumvirate of Jake Livermore, Filip Krovinovic and Conor Gallagher, despite Livermore not having made the best start to the season.
Up top, we would like to see Callum Robinson start from the left, following a great performance against Spurs. On the right, the threat of Pereira is required if the Baggies are to create anything, with the 24-year-old available after missing out against Spurs.
This is perhaps a little bit harsh on Grady Diangana, but the 22-year-old winger has not been at his best so far this season and was dropped to the bench for the last game.
In other West Brom news, View: Bilic must give forgotten West Brom star with Premier League pedigree another chance