Early West Brom team news v Hull City – Jake Livermore returns, Taylor Gardner-Hickman may start
Steve Bruce has given some early West Brom team news ahead of the trip to Hull, with two notable Baggies in line to start the match.
One point and one goal from five games since he replaced Valerien Ismael is a dismal record for the former Newcastle boss, with promotion hopes now essentially gone.
But two men he has so far barely used are set to come into the line-up, as the club looks to arrest a worrying slide into the bottom half of the Championship.
Express and Star reporter Joseph Masi posted on his personal Twitter account the update, saying: “Steve Bruce just held his pre-Hull presser. Jake Livermore will return to the side as captain. TGH also in contention to start…”
The skipper has been missing since he was sent off in the first half against Sheffield United, while Taylor Gardner-Hickman has only been used by the new manager in a ten-minute cameo against Blackburn.
Need a change
Fans will likely be reacting to the prospect of these two players featuring in the starting XI with contrasting emotions.
The midfield has been devoid of inspiration in the captain’s absence, but the addition of the 32-year-old is unlikely to be a game-changer based on his form this season, unless he is unexpectedly inspired by facing his former side.
The versatile Gardner-Hickman on the other hand is due an opportunity, with supporters frustrated by the manager’s reticence to try him as an option in the middle of the park.
The 20-year-old is primarily a defender but has the ability to operate in various positions.
It is perhaps no coincidence that his lone appearance under Bruce came in the best result so far, but a 0-0 draw being the standout scoreline speaks volumes about the current state of this team.
He deserves his chance though so if he is finally to get it that will at least be one small silver lining from the major cloud currently hovering over the Baggies.
In other West Brom news, the boss shared the “brutal truth” after recent events.
Be sure to follow West Brom News on Facebook for 24/7 updates on the Baggies plus more exclusive interviews with Kevin Phillips.