Slaven Bilic says West Brom have ‘big part’ to play this season after loss v Watford
Slaven Bilic has hailed the impact made by Carlos Corberan saying West Brom were “unlucky” at the start of the season.
The Baggies lost 3-2 against Watford at Vicarage Road on Monday (20 February) but they showed great fightback. They came from behind to level the score, but Ken Sema’s 78th-minute winner proved to be the difference between the two sides.
The defeat now leaves the Baggies 10th in the Championship table, four points off the play-off places, but Bilic says that he is “sure” that Corberan’s side will have a “big” part to play this season.
“West Brom were extremely underachieving at the start of the season and were unlucky. Carlos brought them back, which is not easy in such a short time,” the Watford boss said, as quoted by Birmingham Live.
“I didn’t like playing my old club, because it mattered so much to us and them. But it was special to see everyone again and I wish them well, but not too well.
“They have a good coach and a good squad, so I’m sure West Brom still have a big part to play this season.”
Expectations
It was the first time Bilic faced his former club after he was sacked in December 2020. He was a hero at the Hawthorns as he guided Albion to promotion during his time.
Corberan was left frustrated with his side’s lackluster effort in the first half. The recent results have been poor, but still, the Spaniard has done a terrific job so far.
The Baggies have now gone three games without a win, and it appears that they have lost some momentum. With the play-off hopes still alive, the Baggies must get back to winning ways at the earliest.
To be fair, the expectation around the club is now high. Under Steven Bruce, the Baggies were heading for relegation, and no one expected this turnaround.
After winning 10 out of the first 13 games, the Baggies are in a fantastic position to fight for the play-off places. It’s a concern that they are losing momentum at this crucial juncture.
In other West Brom news, Albion pulled the plug on a late loan signing on deadline day.