(Credit: Imago)

Jacob Raw

Tue 21 April 2026 8:00, UK

Josh Maja has been a big winner since James Morrison took the reins at West Bromwich Albion, but what has caused his return to form?

The Nigerian was on target for the sixth time this season in the massive 2-0 away win at Preston on Saturday, which took his Championship tally up to four.

Last campaign, the striker netted 12 times in all competitions, which is a considerably greater return considering his injury issues.

However, the Baggies have seen him step up in the middle of a relegation battle that has only had further fuel added to the fire by a potential points deduction.

Maja is in top form for West Brom, and his stats of late prove that the goals have been a worthy reward for the 27-year-old.

Josh Maja’s top performances have been stacking up

Maja has deserved criticism this season, as he is one of the many reasons why Albion are where they are in the league.

However, Baggies fans will be fully aware of his quality, as it’s no surprise to see him finding the back of the net once more.

As seen in the table above, Maja has an average FotMob score of 7.13 over the last six games, which is impressive considering he hasn’t scored in every match.

Still, he’s returning one every two games at this current rate from the last six matches, and projections would suggest he may grab one or two more before the end of the season.

He averages 1.75 shots per match, with 0.65 of them going on target per 90. He’s been lacking in confidence, and these stats prove that.

But his recent performances show that his tendency to find shooting opportunities could be a big boost for the Baggies now that he’s in form.

Daryl Dike to offer Maja competition

Some would argue that a fully fit Daryl Dike is better than Maja, based on the former’s time with Barnsley.

Unfortunately for Baggies fans, however, they’ve not been able to see the best of the American, who has been cursed with injuries.

However, Maja and Dike both got on the scoresheet against Preston, and it offers Morrison food for thought.

They are not the same profile and offer different qualities, as one thing Dike’s momentum can give Maja is another reason to fight for his place.

The summer is approaching, and both have a fight on their hands to remain with the Black Country Club.