Ismael could change West Brom system after Kean Bryan injury blow – Kevin Phillips
We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…
Kevin Phillips predicts Valerien Ismael may have to change his system at West Brom with another centre-back injury issue arising this week.
It has been confirmed that Kean Bryan, who joined the Albion as a free agent in September, will miss the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.
Bryan needs surgery after his first start for the club against Hull earlier this month was cut short after 40 minutes.
Valerien Ismael signed Bryan as cover for Dara O’Shea after he was injured on international duty with the Republic of Ireland but this latest blow leaves the Baggies short again at centre-back.
Matt Clarke’s fitness record has been sketchy this season while Semi Ajayi has been overlooked by Ismael at times.
Kyle Bartley and Cedric Kipre, who’s only just started to regularly appear, are Ismael’s other two proper centre-back options while Conor Townsend has been drafted in to play on the left-hand side of the back-three at times.
Phillips feels that Bryan’s setback is an opportunity for someone else to come in but it could also lead to Ismael breaking the stubborn stance on his system and changing formation.
Speaking to West Brom News, Super Kev said: “It’s always a blow to lose players, especially when you’ve already got injuries.
“It’s not ideal but as I’ve always said, it’s an opportunity for someone else now to come in.
“We know Ismael likes to play a 3-4-3 but he might have to adjust the system or put someone in there.
“We know other players have played there in that position but it’s not ideal when you have Bryan, who knows the position.
“That’s two centre-backs out now so it’s an opportunity for someone else but he might just have to tinker with the system.
“It’ll be interesting to see how he fares but it’s a natural blow.”
In other West Brom news, Phillips is also furious with this Albion transfer news.
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