Mikey Johnston ‘must start’ for West Brom after what has happened at Sunderland
Tony Mowbray simply has to unleash Mikey Johnston for West Brom if they are to have a chance of securing victory against Sunderland on Saturday.
West Brom remain in the hunt for promotion, albeit a huge gap from the top two means that hey are fighting for one of two remaining playoff spots ahead of the final seven games.
Sunderland look to have all but cemented their spot in fourth place, leaving several teams fighting for the two spots below them, showcasing how important a win for West Brom could be.
With that in mind, Mowbray must bring Johnston back into the starting 11 with Sunderland missing a key player for the clash.
Sunderland absence showcases need for Johnston to start
West Brom are the perceived favourites for the game this weekend, though it will be a tough task to take all three points off the Black Cats, who have ambitions of their own of reaching the promised land of the Premier League.
However, the absence of Dennis Cirkin will be a huge blow to the Wearsiders, with Johnston’s international teammate Alan Browne having to fill in in his absence.
| West Brom | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Johnston | 34 | 2 | 5 |
Browne fared fairly well for Sunderland in their win against Millwall, but having someone as direct and agile as Johnston will be enough to put some serious doubt in his mind for the game, and potentially provide the Baggies with the upper hand.
Johnston’s last goal contribution for Albion was back at the start of February, though this encounter will provide him with an excellent chance to rectify that.
Mowbray has perfect chance to get one over ex-employers
Sunderland fans remain fond of Mowbray for his role in the season in which they reached the Championship playoffs against all odds, though his task this season is very different.
The Baggies boss will know the strengths of the Sunderland squad, as well as their weaknesses, and needs to set his team up to take advantage of that.
A win would be huge for Albion, whereas a defeat could see them drop out of the top six ahead of the final six games of the season.