West Bromwich Albion is gearing up for their upcoming match against Preston North End with some positive team news on the horizon. Despite a recent slump in form that has seen them drop out of the Championship play-off places, the Baggies are looking to turn things around.
One piece of good news for West Brom is the return of full-back Darnell Furlong from suspension. Furlong missed the last game due to accumulation of yellow cards, but he will be back in action for the upcoming match. Additionally, there is a possibility that center-back Kyle Bartley could make a return to the starting lineup after being sidelined for seven games. Manager Carlos Corberan has indicated that Bartley is in better condition and could feature against Preston.
However, West Brom will be without some key players for the match. Summer signing Ousmane Diakite and winger Grady Diangana are both sidelined due to knee and calf injuries respectively. Defenders Semi Ajayi and Paddy McNair are also unavailable, with Ajayi facing a four-month layoff following hamstring surgery and McNair expected to be out for eight weeks with a similar injury.
Despite their struggles in front of goal at home, West Brom has been more prolific on the road this season. The team has scored 14 goals in nine away games, compared to just four goals in their home matches. Striker Daryl Dike remains sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury and is not expected to return until January at the earliest.
Corberan addressed the frustration of some fans during a press conference, emphasizing that he does not pay attention to outside opinions and remains focused on his job. He also reminded fans of the team’s position when he took over in October 2022, highlighting the progress that has been made since then.
As West Brom prepares to face Preston, they will be looking to secure a positive result and get back on track in the Championship. With key players returning to the squad and a renewed sense of determination, the Baggies will be aiming to turn their season around and climb back up the table under Corberan’s guidance.
