West Brom need to be ‘careful’ over Steve Bruce pressure – Carlton Palmer
Despite sitting just outside of the relegation zone in the Championship, Carlton Palmer believes West Brom should stay patient with Steve Bruce.
The Baggies have endured a terrible start to their Championship campaign, and only goal difference keeps Bruce’s side out of the drop zone.
But West Brom have still only lost twice in the league, and that’s exactly what Palmer believes will keep Bruce in his job.
Speaking to FootballLeagueWorld, ex-Albion midfielder Palmer said: “You have to be a little bit careful with this one because they’re not getting beat.
“They’ve had [two defeats]. They are only five points off a play-off place, so, he’s got to be under pressure but I think you’ve just got to be a little bit patient.
“I mean, with those seven draws, if three of those draws become wins and all of a sudden, they’re in a playoff position.”
Running out of time
What Palmer said isn’t false – but Bruce is definitely running out of time to prove he’s capable.
Many of West Brom’s draws this season have been as close to losses as they have been to becoming wins, so while Palmer’s arguement holds some substance, things could also get a lot worse for the Baggies under Bruce.
Scoring goals this season hasn’t been the issue, but the team’s defensive organistation has been horrid, and for that fingers have to be pointed at Bruce.
His consistent decision to select out-of-form players is harming results, and the side have too often looked flat and devoid of energy.
Admittedly West Brom have had a handful of tough fixtures to start the season, but that means excuses are up for the Baggies’ next three games against Swansea, Preston and Luton.
Bruce has to show in those three games that he can turn those draws into wins, otherwise it’s time for him to go.
In other West Brom news, Ron Gourlay reacts to worrying Baggies rumour