Iling-Junior straight in, struggling star benched – West Brom’s best XI as transfer window closes
West Brom welcomed two more new faces into their squad on what was a busy transfer deadline day.
The Baggies acted swiftly and decisively to secure a final two additions to their ranks, taking their final tally of summer signings to a lofty nine.
Samuel Iling-Junior and Charlie Taylor have both joined West Brom and addressed areas of concern that had already developed within the squad.
Ryan Mason has named a fairly settled team during his opening few league games in charge of the B71 outfit, but that could be about to change following the last-minute additions.
Callum Styles to lose spot in best West Brom XI to Charlie Taylor
Chris Mepham and Nat Phillips were imposing for West Brom at the back in their recent victory over Stoke, and with the duo securing a clean sheet on their first outing as a partnership, they surely have to remain as the centre-back pairing moving forward.
However, elsewhere in the side, Mason’s mind may have been altered by the late arrivals on deadline day.
Callum Styles has been inconsistent at the start of the season on the left side of the defence, which could easily see Taylor jump ahead of the Hungary international in the boss’ reckoning.
Meanwhile, Tom Fellows’ departure has left a sizeable hole to be filled in the wide areas, and that responsibility could fall on Iling-Junior, with Mikey Johnston moving across to the right flank in order to accommodate the Aston Villa loanee.
- Iling-Junior already has over 30 games of Serie A experience to his name at the age 21
- He notched three goal contributions during a 16-game loan stint with Middlesbrough last term
- He will likely be the Baggies’ replacement for Fellows
New signing Alfie Gilchrist is also likely to be among the best XI at right-back, after an impressive loan spell with Sheffield United last term.
Josh Griffiths appears to be fixed as Mason’s number one goalkeeper, while Isaac Price has already proven himself to be virtually undroppable at the top of the midfield.
Mason’s team selection has largely been settled so far, but there can be no doubt that the late additions add extra quality in certain areas.
- Read More: Dele Alli and promotion-winning star – Three free agents West Brom could sign after deadline day
The Baggies have had an excellent window
Fellows’ late West Brom exit has unsurprisingly caused plenty of frustration, and only time will tell as to whether an adequate replacement has been sourced.
However, that should not detract from the fact that the Baggies have had a hugely promising summer window on the whole.
They have secured several upgrades on last season’s team in crucial areas of the pitch, without an overly substantial outlay on signings.
The top of the Championship is always fiercely competitive when it comes to each position, but the Black Country outfit appear to have given themselves a fighting chance of promotion with some impressive business.
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