West Brom Predicted Lineup vs Stoke City: Four Changes Made for Championship Match as Star Handed Debut
By Kurtis Leyland, Sports and Trends Writer
Published 6th Feb 2026, 17:15 GMT
West Bromwich Albion host Stoke City in a huge game at the bottom of the Championship table, with newly appointed manager Eric Ramsay still searching for his first win in charge. The Baggies face a Stoke City side that retains aspirations of reaching the play-offs, making this a pivotal encounter for both teams.
Ramsay's Struggles and Team Challenges
Under Eric Ramsay, West Brom have been winless in four matches, managing to pick up only one point from the available twelve. The team has yet to fully respond to his methods following the dismissal of predecessor Ryan Mason, and alarmingly, they have conceded a combined total of twelve goals in the four matches under his leadership. Ramsay admits he must carefully consider his tactical setup moving forward to avoid becoming the first West Brom boss to suffer relegation from the second-tier since Bobby Gould in 1991.
Despite a squad filled with Championship experience that should, on paper, comfortably avoid the drop, the Baggies find themselves in a precarious position. The key questions remain: how will they escape this predicament, and what lineup will Ramsay deploy to secure vital points?
Predicted Lineup: Goalkeeper and Defence
In goal, Max O'Leary is expected to start. The long-serving Bristol City goalkeeper was signed in January to provide a vital boost at the back and is likely to remain the first choice until the season's end.
At right-back, Danny Imray, on loan from Crystal Palace, is predicted to keep his place. He impressed during spells at Bromley and Blackpool and now has the opportunity to prove he can handle the demands of Championship football, despite a tricky debut.
In central defence, Nat Phillips, the experienced former Liverpool defender, is set to make his 30th league appearance of the campaign. Alongside him, Wales international Chris Mepham will start, as the Baggies return to a back four in front of their home supporters.
At left-back, Callum Styles is anticipated to replace Charlie Taylor in the lineup following the recent defeat to Portsmouth.
Predicted Lineup: Midfield and Attack
In midfield, Alex Mowatt is predicted to return to the lineup, replacing Ousmane Diakité. Jayson Molumby, the Republic of Ireland international, is expected to make his 24th appearance of the league season, retaining his place in the middle of the pitch.
In the central attacking midfield role, Isaac Price, who has scored six times this season, is likely to keep his position.
On the right wing, Michael Johnston, the former Celtic winger with eight assists this season, is set to start as the team's main source of creativity.
On the left wing, Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, a January signing, is predicted to come straight into the team to make his league debut, following the disappointing loan move of fellow Villa teammate Samuel Iling Junior.
Up front, Aune Heggebø is expected to lead the line. Although goals have dried up for the Norwegian in recent weeks, he remains the preferred choice ahead of Josh Maja, who has struggled to replicate last season's form.
This predicted lineup reflects Ramsay's efforts to inject fresh energy and address defensive frailties as West Brom aim to treat the Hawthorns crowd to three crucial points in this high-stakes Championship fixture.
