Premier League Countdown - West Bromwich Albion

20 July 2010 11:48
Football.co.uk continues its club-by-club countdown to the start of the of the new Premier League season with a look at newly promoted West Bromwich Albion.

- West Brom News / West Brom Fixtures / Premier League News

Last season
- Championship runners-up

The midlands club continued their 'yoyo' tradition by returning to the top-flight at the first time of asking, finishing second to runaway winners Newcastle United. Manager Roberto Di Matteo's feat was made even more impressive as it was his first season in charge of the club, having previously had just one year of managerial experience as boss of League One MK Dons. Having played arguably the best football in the league last term, the Baggies will be hoping their swift passing and movement will lead to Premier League survival, thus putting an end to their 'yoyo club' tag.

In Steven Reid (free), Pablo Ibanez (free), Gabriel Tamas (£800,000 from Auxerre)

Out Borja Valero (loan to Villareal), Luke Daniels (loan to Bristol Rovers), Robert Koren (free), Filipe Teixeira (free), Josh Labadie (free)

Player to watch Graham Dorrans

Dorrans arrived at the Hawthorns in the summer of 2008, joining from Scottish club Livingston for the paltry fee of just £100,000. Since his arrival, the Scottish international has gone on to become an integral part of the West Brom side, turning in a number of exceptional performances during their promotion-winning season. Courted by a number of clubs including West Ham, Dorrans recently put pen to paper on a new four-year deal.

Football.co.uk verdict

Keeping the ball on the ground and trying to pass through teams might be nice to watch, but that doesn't guarantee success in the Premier League. West Brom have tried that tactic a number of times in the top division and it has always failed. Unless Di Matteo signs the sort of players capable of beautiful football at the highest level, a serious change in game-plan will be needed if they are to avoid the drop.

Prediction - 19th

Source: DSG