Manchester United of course play West Brom his weekend and with that in mind it’s worth taking a look at these three players who we should be wary of this weekend.
Chris Brunt
Without a shadow of a doubt, Chris Brunt is one of the most underrated wingers in the league and defiantly (with no disrespect to the Albion) has the ability to play for bigger clubs. After being one of the Baggie’s plus points in 2008/09 when they suffered relegation he shone last season.
His form after taking over the captaincy when Hodgson took over in February was exceptional. He is an incredibly tricky winger who is very dangerous from set-pieces and whilst he has missed the odd penalty there’s no doubt he has one of the fiercest shots in the league.
He had the joint-4th highest amount of assists in the league last season (11) and there’s no doubt if he remains injury-free this season at the very least he’ll match that number. It’s vital United watch him like a hawk as he has the ability to hurt us even if he is having a quiet game.
Shane Long
Recently signed from Reading on a 3-year deal, Long is certainly a player who has the ability to score 10-12 goals this coming season. At 24 years old, he is maturing game by game and has the qualities to be a good Premier League striker.
He has been compared in the past to his fellow countryman Robbie Keane and there’s no doubt his pace and link-up play are akin to the Spurs striker. Roy Hodgson has done well to make Long a Baggie and there’s no doubt that he has the ability to form a great partnership with Peter Odemwingie up-top.
Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand will no doubt have to watch Long well and make sure that he does not get off to a dream start at the Hawthorns. Make no mistake about it he is a big signing for West Brom and if he has a good season, it would not surprise me to see bigger clubs come in for him.
Youssuf Mulumbu
The last name on this list might shock some readers, but Mulumbu’s form for the Albion last season was certainly a welcome surprise considering how much dramatically his form has improved since his debut mid-way through the 2008/09 season.
Back then whilst on-loan he appeared clumsy on the ball, but after being signed permanently from PSG two summers ago, has found his feet in English football. After being a key part in the Baggies promotion campaign two seasons ago, his form improved throughout last season where he formed a useful defensive midfield partnership with Paul Scharner .
After winning the club’s player of the year by both the fans and players last season he will go into the season with alot of confidence. It’s vital our midfield keep a stern eye on him, as with 7 goals last season he adds a further dimension to Albion’s midfield. He must not be allowed time and space on the ball early on.
By Adam Dennehey @ADennehey87
