West Brom vs Hull City: Championship Preview, Team News & Prediction

The Hawthorns will host a crucial Championship encounter on Saturday as West Bromwich Albion face Hull City, with the hosts battling to avoid relegation and the Tigers aiming to solidify their playoff push. West Brom, enduring a hard season, were denied a much-needed victory in the dying moments of their midweek clash, while Hull City rebounded from recent setbacks with an impressive away win.

West Brom’s struggles continued on Wednesday night as a late header from Cyle Larin secured a 1-1 draw for Southampton, dashing hopes of a first league win of 2026. This result leaves the Baggies in a precarious position, currently 23rd in the Championship standings with nine matches remaining and only a single point separating them from safety. Interim head coach James Morrison has emphasized the need for consistency, stating that Wednesday’s performance must serve as the “benchmark” for the remainder of the season as they strive to avoid a first relegation to League One in over three decades.

Hull City, enjoying a contrasting campaign, are firmly in the promotion conversation. Despite recent losses to fellow contenders Ipswich Town and Millwall, the Tigers demonstrated their resilience with a victory over Wrexham on Tuesday. The impressive form of Liverpool loanee Lewis Koumas has been a key factor in Hull’s success, with the young forward making a significant impact since arriving at the club in January. Currently fifth in the table, Hull City are six points behind second-placed Middlesbrough and nine ahead of Southampton.

Team News and Potential Lineups

West Brom are expected to retain Alfie Gilchrist at centre-back, barring a late return for Nat Phillips. Morrison has favored a two-man attack featuring top scorer Aune Heggebo and Daryl Dike, though both players have struggled for consistent form. The Baggies will be without Mikey Johnston (leg) and Karlan Grant (hamstring) for this match.

Hull City will be without Bristol City loanee Yu Hirakawa, who is sidelined for the remainder of the season with a knee injury. Ryan Giles remains unavailable due to a hamstring problem, with his return anticipated in April.

West Bromwich Albion possible starting lineup: O’Leary; Imray, Gilchrist, Campbell, Styles; Wallace, Molumby, Diakite, Price; Dike, Heggebo

Hull City possible starting lineup: Pandur; Hughes, Egan, McNair; Drameh, Lundstram, Slater, Millar; Gelhardt, Koumas, McBurnie

Hull City’s Dominance at The Hawthorns

Historically, Hull City have struggled at The Hawthorns, failing to secure a victory in their last 10 visits (D2 L8), with their last win coming in October 2008. This poor record provides a glimmer of hope for West Brom, despite their current form. Hull City, however, boast the second-best away record in the Championship, suggesting they are capable of overcoming this historical disadvantage.

West Bromwich Albion’s recent form has been concerning, with a current winless run of 14 matches in the Championship. Their last victory in the second tier at The Hawthorns came against Queens Park Rangers on December 29. Hull City, in contrast, have collected nine points from their last five second-tier battles, demonstrating a greater consistency in results.

The predicted scoreline, according to analysts, favors Hull City, with a 1-2 victory anticipated. This prediction reflects Hull’s strong away form and West Brom’s ongoing struggles in front of goal, where leading marksman Aune Heggebo has faced a 17-game drought.

As the season enters its crucial final stages, this match represents a significant opportunity for both teams. For West Brom, a positive result is vital to their survival hopes, while Hull City will be eager to maintain their momentum in the race for promotion. The outcome at The Hawthorns could have far-reaching consequences for both clubs.

The Championship season continues to deliver drama and this weekend’s fixture promises to be another compelling chapter. What impact will James Morrison’s tactical approach have on West Brom’s performance? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.