West Brom's Defensive Dilemma Intensifies Before Pivotal Birmingham Derby
West Bromwich Albion manager Eric Ramsey is confronting a mounting defensive injury crisis as his relegation-threatened side prepares for a highly anticipated Championship derby against Birmingham City at St Andrew's on Tuesday night. The Baggies' defensive woes have been compounded by fresh setbacks, leaving Ramsey with a significant selection headache ahead of the local showdown.
Defensive Personnel Crisis Leaves Ramsey Scrambling
Since taking charge of Albion, the 33-year-old Ramsey has faced persistent scrutiny over his defensive formations, initially favouring a back three system that conceded twelve goals across his first four matches in charge. A recent tactical shift to a back four finally yielded positive results, delivering a first clean sheet in nearly two months during Saturday's 0-0 draw with Stoke City.
However, this defensive stability has been immediately undermined by new injury concerns. Centre-back Chris Mepham departed The Hawthorns with a hamstring strain following the Stoke match, with the full extent of his injury yet to be determined. This setback compounds existing defensive absences, with former Birmingham City captain Krystian Bielik ruled out until March with a shoulder problem and George Campbell also sidelined through injury.
The cumulative effect leaves West Brom with just one fully fit senior centre-back available for selection against their local rivals. This represents a particularly poignant absence for Bielik, who made 125 appearances across two separate spells with Birmingham City before departing last summer, denying him a homecoming at St Andrew's.
Ramsey's Selection Conundrum and Tactical Decisions
Ramsey's primary selection dilemma revolves around identifying a suitable partner for summer signing Nat Phillips in central defence. The leading candidate appears to be left-back Charlie Taylor, who may be required to shift infield to provide defensive cover. This potential reshuffle presents tactical challenges, particularly as many Albion supporters remain wary of reverting to a back three or five against a Birmingham City side that has recently discovered encouraging form.
Birmingham City approach the derby with momentum, having secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Leicester City in their previous outing. This result leaves Blues positioned tenth in the Championship table, merely two points adrift of the playoff positions, adding further significance to Tuesday's encounter.
Attacking Positives Amid Defensive Concerns
Amid the defensive turmoil, West Brom can draw encouragement from their attacking options. Daryl Dike made his first start of the season against Stoke, providing Ramsey with additional forward alternatives alongside Aune Heggebo and Josh Maja. This attacking depth helps offset the absence of Karlan Grant, who faces three months on the sidelines with his own hamstring strain.
Albion's hard-fought draw with Stoke proved consequential in the league standings, lifting them out of the relegation zone and above both Blackburn Rovers and Leicester City. This provides a crucial confidence boost as they prepare for a derby that carries significant implications for both clubs' Championship aspirations.
The stage is set for a compelling West Midlands derby, with Birmingham City seeking to capitalise on their neighbours' defensive vulnerabilities while West Brom aim to demonstrate resilience amidst their personnel crisis.
