West Brom vs Coventry: Championship Preview, Team News & Prediction

West Bromwich Albion will attempt to snap a seven-match winless streak when they host promotion-chasing Coventry City at The Hawthorns on Saturday afternoon. The Baggies, still searching for their first victory under manager Eric Ramsay, were recently eliminated from the FA Cup, while Coventry City bolstered their Championship title hopes with a decisive win over Middlesbrough earlier this week.

Since Ramsay took the helm on January 16, West Brom have struggled to find form, currently positioned 21st in the Championship standings. A points deduction for Leicester City has kept them from falling into the relegation zone, but the pressure is mounting. Despite a relatively strong home record – losing only four of 15 second-tier contests at The Hawthorns – victories have been scarce since October. Coventry City, meanwhile, are enjoying a resurgence, currently leading the Championship table by six points over Millwall after a 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough on Monday.

Coventry City’s Momentum

Coventry City’s recent form has been a key factor in their climb to the top of the Championship. A significant boost came from Haji Wright, who scored a hat-trick against Middlesbrough, ending a three-game winless run for Frank Lampard’s side. Sports Mole reports that this victory has put them firmly on course for a potential return to the Premier League for the first time in over two decades.

Team News and Injury Concerns

West Brom are grappling with a number of injury concerns. George Campbell is sidelined until March with a hamstring injury, while Karlan Grant and Chris Mepham are also recovering from hamstring issues. Left-back Charlie Taylor is expected to fill a central defensive role alongside Nat Phillips. Coventry City’s injury list is improving, though goalkeeper Oliver Dovin remains out with a serious knee injury. Frank Onyeka, recently recruited to bolster the squad, is expected to feature in Saturday’s match. Brandon Thomas-Asante, who previously played for West Brom between 2022 and 2024, is available after serving a three-match ban for violent conduct.

Possible Lineups

West Bromwich Albion possible starting lineup: O’Leary; Gilchrist, Phillips, Taylor, Styles; Johnston, Molumby, Mowatt, Jimoh-Aloba, Price; Heggebo

Coventry City possible starting lineup: Rushworth; Van Ewijk, Thomas, Latibeaudiere, Dasilva; Onyeka, Grimes, Sakamoto, Rudoni, Mason-Clark; Wright

The contrasting form of these two sides suggests Coventry City will be the favorites heading into this match. Though, West Brom’s home advantage and the require for points to climb away from the relegation battle could make for a closely contested affair. West Bromwich Albion News notes that Ryan Mason pointed to a key decision that went against his side in their recent defeat, highlighting the frustration within the team.

As West Brom prepare for back-to-back home fixtures, a positive result against Coventry City is crucial. Coventry, buoyed by their recent success against Middlesbrough, will be aiming to continue their winning momentum. The Championship promotion race is heating up and this match promises to be a significant encounter for both teams.

What impact will the injuries have on West Brom’s performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow Championship fans.