Big Sam lauds new West Brom signings for their impact on squad
West Brom boss Sam Allardyce has lauded his January recruits for lifting the rest of the squad ahead of Thursday’s clash with Everton.
Big Sam made four key signings in the transfer window who look to have restored some life in the club. Having lost six of their eight games prior, the Baggies are now undefeated in three games, taking five points in that time.
Speaking ahead of the match with Everton, Allardyce praised his new signings for their energy and quality during the mini-revival.
“I give credit to the four players that have invigorated the team,” Big Sam said.
“Robert, Mbaye, Okay and Ainsley. The rest of the players have seen their quality, their energy and their ability and they have all had a lift from that.
“They have lifted their games. We have been practising on the training ground. We have had more time and I think everyone can see the benefit of that.
“Hopefully, we can improve more.”
A big battle
Allardyce recruited very well in January, bringing in a good blend of talent. Diagne has added some much-needed firepower, is proving a handful up front. He could have had a hattrick against Manchester United, a game in which the Baggies deserved to win.
More goals will certainly come from him, especially when you look at the fixtures coming up. He should be keen to face Newcastle, Palace and Southampton in the coming weeks, three sides who have been leaking goals.
The midfield signings have been excellent, also. In particular, Snodgrass and Maitland-Niles, who are both prepared to run for 90 minutes and work tirelessly.
Snodgrass’ set-piece expertise was definitely played a factory in Big Sam going after him. The Scot has played at the top level for a few years, and no doubt has a positive impact on the dressing room. His work-rate inspired the side to a 3-2 Black Country Derby win on his debut.
Maitland-Niles, on the other hand, is a young and hungry player with a point to prove. He had the option to go to Leicester or Southampton, but chose a relegation battle to try and prove his worth. It says a lot about his character. He has been in and around the England squad, and will be keen to perform well and make the squad for the Euros.
Okay Yokuslu has been fantastic in the middle since coming into the side. He’s started the last three games, it’s no coincidence we’ve taken points from all of them. He has averaged a passing accuracy of 82.5%, and won 71.2% of his defensive duels [WyScout].
He’s rock solid and is useful in possession, the stability in the middle we’ve been crying out for. In particular, against Burnley, whilst down to 10 men, he made 10 interceptions and won possession 11 times, completing 100% of his dribbles successfully whilst we pressed despite being a man down.
The new arrivals certainly appear up for the fight. Hopefully, it isn’t too little too late as we’re still nine points adrift with just 12 games to go.
In other West Brom news, this supercomputer has rated the Baggies chances of a win this weekend against Newcastle.