Ryan Mason can save West Brom job with Josh Maja tweak vs Charlton
Josh Maja should not be used as a lone striker at West Brom, and it’s time for Ryan Mason to see that.
West Brom are falling down the Championship table, and with just one win from their last five, Mason needs to change something.
Quite frankly, based on Albion’s latest draw with Sheffield Wednesday, their lack of attacking threat is the biggest concern, with Maja asked to play a lone role up top, and seeing very little of the ball in dangerous areas as a result.
The same has happened with Aune Heggebo since his summer move to The Hawthorns, and the striking duo could have the recipe to save Mason from further embarrassment.
Two up front must be trialled at West Brom
West Brom have scored just 12 goals this season, which his the worst goal return from any Championship side until you start looking at the bottom five. It is
Sheffield Wednesday, a club in absolute turmoil, have scored just two fewer, with Sheffield United and Portsmouth the only other sides who have scored less than Albion.
This isn’t just a tactical issue; some of the Baggies’ forward players need to take a serious look at the way they have been performing.
However, throughout the course of the season, neither Maja nor Heggebo have really had anywhere near enough service to get the goals to win games.
- Maja has had just six shots in 11 appearances (322 minutes)
- Heggebo has had 17 shots from 13 appearances (925 minutes)
- Duo have a combined xG of 3.94, with two goals scored
Admittedly, both are underperforming their xG, but given the strengths that they both possess, and the struggles showcased by Samuel Iling-Junior, Mason needs to try and get them both on the same side.
Maja is at his best when he has players around him, and Heggebo has already shown a willingness to get in behind when the situation is right.
West Brom’s possession stat backs up this argument
West Brom are yet to win a game in which they have had more possession than their opponent, and the main reason behind that is their struggles when it comes to breaking down defences.
Having Maja and Heggebo to occupy defenders will create more space for the midfield players, and, depending on the formation adopted, also the wide players.
By having two players leading the line, they will always have someone to work off, which has been nonexistent since the day Mason arrived.
West Brom face Charlton away from home on Tuesday, and given the likelihood of the Baggies dominating possession, it is the perfect time for Mason to trial this.
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