John Swift starting berth at threat amid ‘quality’ West Brom squad verdict
West Brom making an unbeaten start to the season and their newfound squad depth could see John Swift lose his place in the starting XI.
Albion are sitting pretty at the top of the Championship following four wins and a draw in five league matches so far, with Carlos Corberan naming an unchanged starting side for each game.
However, with new signings Uros Racic, Callum Styles and the returning Mikey Johnston yet to be fully integrated into the team, it may well be Swift who makes way in midfield.
In an interview with the Express and Star (17 September), Swift noted this strength, saying: “Inside the changing room we knew we were strong, but to start how we have – I don’t think anybody expected it.
“Having quality on the bench to come on and change the game is a massive plus.
“The quality we have on the bench, there are some great players and hopefully they can continue to come on and make a difference.”
Carlos Corberan could drop John Swift amid West Brom changes
Corberan’s side are leading the way after five matches of the new Championship season, but with (at least) 41 to go, there is plenty of change ahead, and this could be reflected in the Spaniard’s starting XI.
Like the rest of the side, Swift has hardly put a foot wrong so far in 2024/25, but the likes of Johnston in particular will be keen to force their way into the side sooner rather than later.
Swift’s fellow midfielders Jayson Molumby and Alex Mowatt have already got themselves on the scoresheet this season, with the latter firing home a double against Portsmouth last time out.
Tom Fellows and surprise package Karlan Grant have also provided assists and goals respectively from the flanks, leaving Swift as the odd player out and yet to register a single goal contribution.
With talks of a new contract also on the line, the onus is on Swift to step up and earn a new deal at the Hawthorns – and make sure he’s not the player sacrificed when Corberan does make changes to his starting XI.
In other West Brom news, Corberan has been told to pull up one player for his ’embarrassing play-acting’ in the win over Portsmouth.
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