Jordan Hugill to start, three changes – West Brom predicted XI v Nottingham Forest
West Brom manager Valerien Ismael is expected to make three changes to his side for tonight’s clash against Nottingham Forest at The Hawthorns.
The Baggies are desperate for a win following a poor run of form which has seen them take just two points from their last three matches.
The clash against the Reds will be Albion’s third game in the space of a week, following the 1-0 loss to Huddersfield last weekend the 0-0 draw against Blackpool on Tuesday, so Ismael may decide to freshen things up.
Sam Johnstone is predicted to start again in goal, but a change could be considered in defence.
Semi Ajayi lost his place in the side following the 3-0 defeat to Fulham a month ago, but will be in contention to return.
That said, the back three of Cedric Kipre, Kyle Bartley and Matt Clarke helped keep a clean sheet against Blackpool in midweek so that may keep the trio in the starting lineup.
Darnell Furlong came back in for Taylor Gardner-Hickman at right wing-back on Tuesday and should keep his place, while Conor Townsend has started every game this season so is likely to continue on the left; Adam Reach is the alternative if Ismael decides to give Townsend a rest.
With Jake Livermore serving the second of his three-game ban, Alex Mowatt and Jayson Molumby are really Ismael’s only options in the middle of the park amid doubts over Robert Snodgrass’ whereabouts.
The big question lies over which attacking trio the former Barnsley boss goes with. He has rued a lack of cutting edge in recent weeks as West Brom have scored just twice in their last five games.
Top scorer Karlan Grant has gone off the boil lately but remains the team’s most dangerous weapon and it would be a surprise to see him drop out.
Callum Robinson and Jordan Hugill came off the bench against Blackpool looking like they had a point to prove and although they didn’t score, they offered more threat than those they replaced – Grady Diangana and Matt Phillips. That could earn them a start.
Here’s how we expect Albion to line up against Forest this evening, with three changes in total…
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