James Morrison instantly drops Josh Maja in four changes – West Brom predicted XI vs Oxford United
James Morrison could drop Josh Maja from the starting line-up for West Brom’s Championship clash against Oxford United at Kassam Stadium on Saturday.
Eric Ramsay was sacked after West Brom’s 1-1 draw with Charlton at The Hawthorns on Tuesday, and Morrison will take up the role as caretaker manager for the time being.
The Baggies are just one point clear of the relegation zone, and they simply can’t afford to drop points to an Oxford United side that is 23rd in the table.
As a result, Morrison might look to make four changes to the side, with Aune Heggebo replacing Maja up front.
Josh Maja dropped for Aune Heggebo in four changes
Maja has been linked with a move away from West Brom, and that has clearly been reflected in his disappointing performances.
Against Charlton, the 27-year-old striker missed a huge chance at 1-0 up, in what was his only real involvement in the game.
According to Sofascore, Maja has underperformed his xG by a total of 1.51, which is incredibly poor.
| Stat | Maja |
| Appearances | 28 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Expected goals (xG) | 2.51 |
| Touches in opposition box | 34 |
Although Heggebo hasn’t been at the top of his game, he’ll certainly provide more of an attacking threat up front.
Max O’Leary joined the Baggies in the winter transfer window, but Morrison may favour Josh Griffiths to start in goal due to their prior relationship in B71.
Charlie Taylor could also make way for Krystian Bielik due to the fact that the Poland international is a natural centre-back.
The final change could see Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba return to the team in place of Jayson Molumby, meaning Isaac Price would play in a more central position behind Heggebo.
Ousmane Diakite and Alex Mowatt should resume their partnership in midfield, while Mikey Johnston will need to step up in the last few months of the campaign.
Why James Morrison’s FA Cup win over Swansea should give West Brom fans hope
The Baggies beat Swansea City 6-5 on penalties to secure their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup on 11 January.
The match finished 2-2 after extra time, but Ollie Bostock scored the winning spot-kick in what has been West Brom’s only win in 2026 so far.
It was Morrison’s only game in caretaker charge this season, which should give the fans huge optimism.
He has previously relied on youngsters to make an impact, and supporters would welcome seeing Bostock and Harry Whitwell play a bigger role in the team.
While Morrison doesn’t have a glamorous CV, he understands exactly what West Brom fans want, and a win against Oxford would definitely rejuvenate the morale among supporters.
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