Ryan Mason puts it all on the line with four changes – West Brom predicted XI vs QPR
Ryan Mason may have to risk it all to save his West Brom job against Queens Park Rangers, and that means making wholesale changes.
West Brom host QPR at The Hawthorns in the Championship on Monday, as a loss could see Mason relieved of his duties.
Last time out in the league, West Brom were beaten at home by Bristol City in a 2-1 defeat that heard boos ring around The Hawthorns at full-time.
A lack of results and exciting football has held Mason back from being successful so far at the Albion, but he may roll the dice against QPR to prove everyone wrong.
Ryan Mason to hand Samuel Iling-Junior new role in attacking lineup
Joe Wildsmith has taken Josh Griffiths’ spot in recent weeks, much to the confusion of the Albion faithful, but after poor performances, the latter may get his position back.
Isaac Price has been below-par, as his terrific form seen at the start of the season has fizzled out, and Mason could be tempted to chuck Josh Maja in as Aune Heggebo’s strike partner.
Samuel Iling-Junior has had his critics since arriving on loan in the summer, but his capability to play left-back is something that should appeal to Mason in this make-or-break encounter.
Alex Mowatt is also expected to return to the starting line-up, with Callum Styles dropping to the bench in hopes that the Baggies boss can restore midfield control versus the R’s.
Mason could try to use a 4-4-2 formation from the off this time, while Iling-Junior offers the chance to be a fifth attacker for West Brom.
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History suggests that Mason will survive past QPR test
The positive for Mason right now is that he has a major opportunity to turn the ship around, and fast.
The winter period offers plenty of chances for results, as QPR is the second of four games that West Brom play in the space of 11 days.
If recent history is anything to go by, then Mason will have no issue picking a result up against Julien Stephan’s side at The Hawthorns.
West Brom’s record vs QPR at The Hawthorns since 2018:
- Matches: Six
- Wins: Four
- Draws: Two
- Losses: Zero
The last time that QPR won a game at The Hawthorns was over a decade ago in April of 2015, when Tony Pulis’ Albion were beaten 4-1 in the Premier League.
QPR’s unfamiliarity with winning on West Brom’s home turf should play into Mason’s hands, as no result in this one will surely spell the end for the 34-year-old time in West Bromwich.
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