Ally Robertson makes Pipa team news prediction for West Brom clash v Bristol City at Ashton Gate
West Brom great Ally Robertson expects summer signing Pipa to make his debut in this weekend’s Championship clash with Bristol City.
Pipa arrived at The Hawthorns on deadline day [1 September] and was not ready in time to for the 2-1 loss to Huddersfield Town the following day.
But after two weeks’ training with his new teammates, Robertson has tipped the Spanish right-back to play a part at Ashton Gate on Saturday [16 September].
Reflecting on Albion’s transfer business, Robertson wrote in his Express & Star column [14 September]: “In terms of strengthening, the club probably did the best they could.
“If you don’t have any money to spend, then you can’t do anything else but use your contacts to get people in on loan, as the Baggies did with Pipa on deadline day. He will provide some competition and cover at full-back.
“We should get a first look at him on Saturday at Bristol City, in what is the first of six matches in three weeks, four of which are away from home.”
Familiar face
Carlos Corberan will know exactly what he is getting in Pipa, having previously worked together at both Huddersfield Town and Olympiacos.
The Ludogorets loanee has not played a competitive game since mid-July, so it is highly likely he will be slowly integrated into the side.
However, Corberan may decide that the time is right to axe Darnell Furlong from the backline ready for this busy run of fixtures.
West Brom have yet to keep a clean sheet in six outings in all competitions this term, so something needs to change.
Pipa is an attack-first defender who can also play further up the field, giving Corberan the option of changing things around in-game should he wish.
The 25-year-old assisted four goals and scored two of his own in 37 Championship appearances with Huddersfield in 2020-21.
That gives a good indication of what we can expect to see when Pipa likely makes his Baggies bow in Bristol this weekend.
In other West Brom news, an Albion player is hopeful of belatedly making an impact at The Hawthorns.