Tony Gale fears for last-gasp West Brom exits as he makes promotion prediction based on evidence vs Newcastle

Tony Gale was impressed by what he saw from West Brom despite their defeat to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.

Despite losing at St James' Park, James Morrison and his men can hold their heads up high for going toe to toe with one of the most expensive squads in English football.

Isaac Price scored twice but a Bazoumana Toure goal and a brace by ex-Baggies loanee Harvey Barnes secured Newcastle's spot in the third round of the competition.

Price's first goal was delightful as he opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a clever free-kick to beat Magpies goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen at his near post.

He also scored from the penalty spot for the second game in a row after a Lewis Hall handball.

Unfortunately it wasn't enough for West Brom to win or even go to penalties, but ex-West Ham defender Gale thinks there were positives to take from the loss.

What Tony Gale said about Isaac Price's goal

Speaking on Sky Sports+, Gale said: "It was great technique.

"He didn't look at the goal until the very last moment. He was looking at the far post and was appearing like he was going to whip it in behind that Newcastle line of defenders.

"But he went for that near post and it was perfectly placed.

"The keeper will be disappointed, though. You should never get beaten at your near post there.

"But it was great technique."

That wasn't the only thing that wowed Gale, who also tipped the Baggies to do well in the Championship this season.

Gale's prediction for West Brom this season

After the match finished, Gale revealed that he saw enough from Morrison's men in Newcastle to suggest they could mount a serious promotion bid this season.

After two league games, West Brom are second in the Championship having won against Norwich and Burnley.

Gale, however, believes the Albion need to keep hold of their key players before the transfer window shuts next Tuesday in order for his prediction to materialise.

"I anticipate West Brom to be right at the top of the Championship this season," Gale said at full-time.

I think they're really well coached, they've got some good players, hopefully they don't lose any of them just as the window is closing. Then they'll maintain a challenge."