West Brom resurgence to benefit Alfie Maughan as James Morrison hours from permanent role
West Bromwich Albion‘s recent form could give James Morrison the chance to integrate youth into the first-team fold.
When Eric Ramsay was sacked at The Hawthorns, Albion looked destined for League One football, but Morrison has worked wonders to change that.
The Baggies sit five points above the drop zone with just three games left, and should they secure victory against Watford on Tuesday night, safety could be secured.
It would be a huge boost for West Brom and their supporters, and also for Morrison, whose chances of landing the job would be greatly increased.
But West Brom’s youth stars could also benefit from safety being secured with games to spare, and Alfie Maughan could profit the most.
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Alfie Maughan could be set for West Brom breakthrough
Given the predicament that West Brom have been in for the most part of the season, they have not had the breathing space required to throw their young talent into the deep end.
However, a win against Watford could change that, and depending on results elsewhere, it could confirm their spot in the Championship next season.
| Premier League 2 | Maughan |
| Games | 10 |
| Crosses completed | 26 |
| Cross accuracy | 30.2% |
| Big chances created | 5 |
| Chances created | 25 |
Should that be the case, Morrison can take the handbrake off and hand minutes to several of their youth stars who have been shining in the Premier League 2, and Maughan is at the top of the list.
The 17-year-old has three assists from right-back in the Premier League 2, but it’s his ability to deliver a top ball into the box that can be of use.
Maughan has completed 26 crosses so far this season, which places him among the top 2.3 per cent of defenders, while also having created 24 chances.
That also places him among the top 2.9 per cent of defenders in the division.
West Brom success could also lead to a chance for Eseosa Sule
Aside from Maughan, Eseosa Sule has also had a season to remember for West Brom, with seven goals in nine games for the Under-21s.
He has already had recognition, having made one Championship appearance this season.
Sule has been an unused substitute in three of the last four Championship games, showcasing that he is aleady on the radar at The Hawthorns.
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