West Bromhave failed to score a goal in their first two league encounters and will hope to score their first goal when they face Swansea. There has been much speculation over the future of want-away winger Peter Odemwingie, and in the absence of the Nigerian, West Brom have failed to score. Swansea are rock bottom in the league table on goal difference following to successive defeats against Manchester United and Tottenham. This will provide them with an opportunity to get some points on the board, and with them playing away from home, there will be considerably less pressure on them to perform.
What to expect from the Match
Michu Magic!!! It is highly unlikely that this match will end in a draw. With both sides needing a win to get themselves going, it should be a good contest between the sides. Spanish attacker Michu was devastating in his debut season last year, and so far, he has been unable to replicate those performances. With the arrival of Wilfred Bony, it gives Michu the chance to drop further back and play in his preferred role behind the main striker. With growing understanding between these two, Swansea should have the creative influence in Michu and the finishing ability in Bony to get the job done. West Brom will look to halt Swansea’s midfield in a bid to prevent them from playing their now-trademark fluent attacking play under Michael Laudrup.
Players to watch out for
Claudio Yacob(West Brom):The Argentine midfielder will be key for West Brom. His playmaking abilities from a deep lying role in midfield will be crucial in providing the required impetus to West Brom’s attacks. With him pulling the strings from deep, it will allow West Broms wingers to get into the game. Michu(Swansea):The Spaniard has been below par this season, considering his excellent performance last season. It may be that he no longer is an unknown commodity in the Premier League, but he has enough class to tear open opposition defenses. Expect him to strike up a deadly partnership with Wilfred Bony.
Predicted Starting line ups
West Brom: West Brom may make a couple of changes to the team that started against Everton- Uruguayan international Diego Lugano may come in to strengthen the defense while Chris Brunt may replace Markus Rosenberg in attack. Swansea:The Swans could make one change to their setup, replacing JonjoShelvey with Wilfred Bony. Michu would drop deeper into the hole behind Bony to use his superior playmaking abilities. Predictions Swansea have enough quality throughout the side to be able to get the job done against West Brom, and they should win this one 2-1, with both Michu and Bony getting on the scoresheet. Expect Lugano to make an impact as well.
Predictions:
West Brom 1-2 Swansea (Lugano) (Michu, Bony)