Opposition Focus: WBA

WEST BROM VS FULHAM | 14TH JULY 2020

Image: Fulham FC

We spoke to Dan from @BaggiesFacts to get an opposition perspective ahead of tomorrow’s game at The Hawthorns…

Fulham vs West Brom: what’s the first thing that comes to mind from years gone by?

A League Cup tie back in 2005 sticks out. Former Cottager Junichi Inamoto smashed in a sensational long range goal to win the tie 3-2 for Albion in extra time.

What have you made of the job Slaven Bilic has done this season? Is he the best manager in the league in your opinion?

Fantastically well. When you think back to just two years ago and the shambles our club was in when we were relegated, you realise along with Darren Moore and Jimmy Shan last season that he has laid some solid new foundations for success. Other clubs may well have a good shout for ‘best manager’. Slaven is up there, but we’ll have to wait it until the season reaches its conclusion.

Who’s been your standout player so far this season?

There are a few that have stood out. Dara O’Shea has been fantastic in his senior debut season and Jake Livermore has been the perfect all round midfielder but you can’t deny the pure talent of Matheus Pereira. I’ve NEVER seen a Baggies player so composed on the ball. Both feet, skill, great under pressure, glides across the pitch, assists galore and some magnificent goals. Maybe the most exciting Albion player in my lifetime, and I’m 32 this month. He could be anything he wants to be.

Do you fancy your chances of winning the league or is it solely about securing second place?

It’s going to be bloody tough. We are definitely looking over our shoulders more than looking at what Leeds are up to, to be honest!

How has the behind closed door aspect impacted on your side?

I’d say all football has just been affected in general. Different managers and teams have tried their best to adapt but I’m certainly not pointing any fingers, it’s a tough situation for everyone. It may have even affected us positively in games like Derby at home recently where we passed them off the park.

How far away do you think your current squad is from being Premier League ready?

Come back to me IF we get promoted. This game against you is massively important, I’m jinxing nothing by talking about anything to do with the Premier League!

How do you see the game going?

We need a win. We have to take all three points. Biggest game of the season, in a season of big games. I have to back the Albion, only by the odd goal though. 3-2, maybe? I have no doubts that Mitrovic will get himself on the scoresheet!

Top 6 and Bottom 3 predictions

Top 6: Leeds, Albion, Brentford, Fulham, Forest and Swansea.

Bottom 3: Huddersfield, Luton and Barnsley.


Thanks to Dan from @BaggiesFacts for answering our questions.