Where has it all gone wrong for Josh Maja at West Brom? Stats this season pinpoint Hawthorns truth
Josh Maja has perhaps suffered the biggest drop-off in form out of all West Brom stars this season.
The striker was one of the Baggies’ main men last campaign, drawing attention from other clubs in England for his performances.
The Nigerian netted 12 times in 26 games, while acting as a consistent goalscorer throughout the season, despite suffering fitness setbacks.
West Brom have struggled this season as a whole, but Maja in particular has received some of the most criticism from supporters, a stark difference from 12 months ago.
But what has been the issue for him at The Hawthorns?
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Josh Maja’s season stats bring up interesting West Brom questions
Albion are fighting for their lives in the Championship, and sit just one point above the relegation zone in 21st place heading into the last 10 games of the season.
James Morrison will be doing everything he can to turn the Baggies’ fortunes around, but finding success in the final third might be his biggest task.
- West Brom have scored 35 goals
- Only 21 of them have been from open play
As highlighted by Sofascore in the graphic below, Maja has three goals this season in 33 games, and converts 33 per cent of his big chances.
But that’s telling, because it’s a good return; one in three big chances are buried. However, does that show the lack of clear-cut opportunities that West Brom are creating?
He manages 1.27 touches per game in the opponent’s box, further suggesting he is a victim of West Brom’s wider final third problems.
The 27-year-old has, of course, had his fitness issues this season, which is highlighted in his 35 minutes per game ratio.
However, his overall 6.50 rating isn’t good enough, and it’s not just the goals that he’s lacked; his all-around game hasn’t been good enough.
What happens to Maja if West Brom stay up?
If the Baggies were relegated, Maja would likely depart to find another club in the Championship with his contract expiring at the end of the campaign.
But would he remain if the Albion stayed up?
Perhaps the reason for some of the frustration with Maja this season is also due to supporters knowing just how good he can be, as seen last campaign.
However, if Albion do escape the drop, Maja is one of several West Brom players who need to be let go, even if they can’t get a fee for his departure.
It’s clear that West Brom need a clear-out, and new backroom appointments will see to that, and they may decide that it’s best to move the Nigerian on.
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