West Brom take a break from league action, probably something they could do without at this stage of the season, but alas the FA Cup fifth round has arrived.
The Baggies host Premier League outfit Newcastle United at the Hawthorns later this evening as this stage of the competition has switched to midweek due to the winter break.
Slaven Bilic’s side recorded their first defeat in seven attempts on Saturday afternoon, allowing Leeds United back in the title race, although they still hold a six-point cushion to the playoff positions.
The Croatian has rotated in the cups this campaign, and that isn’t likely to change here either, here’s our predicted XI…
Bilic could make as many as nine changes as he hands an opportunity to a range of fringe players whilst resting some of his first-team stars for the final season run-in.
There’s a swap between the sticks with Jonathan Bond replacing Sam Johnstone for what will be only his fourth senior appearance of the season.
The backline is rejigged with Kyle Bartley returning to the fray along with Kieran Gibbs. The 30-year-old makes a long-awaited comeback from injury and takes the reins from Conor Townsend – a move Bilic has already publicly confirmed.
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Dara O’Shea moves centrally with Ahmed Hegazi out injured with Darnell Furlong coming in at right-back over Lee Peltier, who may appear on the bench for the very first time since joining.
Bilic keeps the new 4-3-3 system, but there are plenty of switches further afield.
Rekeem Harper keeps his place but will have a very experienced duo next to him with Chris Brunt and Gareth Barry being handed a rare chance to start.
On the wings, loan duo Callum Robinson (cup-tied) and Matheus Pereira are rested which means Matty Phillips returns on the right with Kyle Edwards likely to hold down the other side.
Filip Krovinovic is also dropped for a breather ahead of the weekend.
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While Charlie Austin wins the battle for the number nine role with fellow 30-year-old Hal Robson-Kanu earning a rest. Kenneth Zohore could feature from the bench.
Kamil Grosicki is cup-tied and will not be involved, and there should be a place for youth talent Rayhaan Tulloch after he missed the U23 game on Monday night.
And in other news, The Athletic provide a latest update on the dubious future of Nathan Ferguson…
