Ryan Mason ends failed experiment in three changes – West Brom predicted XI vs Sheffield United
West Brom are set to take on Sheffield United on Friday in a must-win game for Ryan Mason.
With pressure heating up on Mason at The Hawthorns, a win is simply needed if the manager is to ensure his job is safe.
The Baggies come into the match 16th in the table after their 3-2 defeat to Southampton and are now nervously looking over their shoulder after back-to-back defeats.
With Sheffield United having a chance to leapfrog West Brom on Friday, Mason will no doubt look to make changes to his lineup to avoid this scenario.
Josh Griffiths to return to starting XI for Sheffield United
After Joe Wildsmith heavily underperformed for West Brom in two consecutive matches, surely Mason will look to end this failed experiment.
The goalkeeper has conceded six goals in two matches and has been extremely poor.
Therefore, it seems inevitable that Josh Griffiths is reintroduced for the match against the Blades.
- Wildsmith was brought into the starting XI against QPR
- It was his first Championship start since April
- However, the goalkeeper has not impressed
Into the backline and Mason is likely to keep the same defence, with Krystian Bielik at right-back, Callum Styles at left-back, and Chris Mepham and Nat Phillips occupying the centre-back positions.
Into midfield, and Alex Mowatt drops out for Jayson Molumby after his injury against the Saints.
The Republic of Ireland international will be joined by Ousmane Diakite, with Isaac Price as the attacking midfielder.
On the right wing, Mikey Johnston regains his place, with Karlan Grant staying on the left, while Aune Heggebo leads the front line.
- Read more: Michael Carrick transfer budget revealed for January if West Brom favourite replaces Ryan Mason
West Brom’s record against Sheffield United explained
In recent years, West Brom have had an awful record against the Blades.
Only one of their last six meetings has resulted in a win for the Black Country outfit, coming in a 1-0 victory in the Carabao Cup back in August 2022.
Last season, both clashes ended in a draw, with West Brom and Sheffield United seeing out a 2-2 stalemate at The Hawthorns last December.
Now, Mason will be aiming to put an end to this trend as he looks to save his job.
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