Let’s take a look at how West Bromwich Albion’s summer signings have started their time at the Hawthorns.
Matt Phillips
Phillips was West Bromwich Albion’s first summer signing after a prolonged pursuit of the QPR man. The winger played well in his debut against Crystal Palace but failed to impress in the next three games versus Everton, Northampton Town and Middlesbrough.
The 25 year-old looked fresh following the international break and had promising moments in West Brom’s 1-0 defeat to the Cherries, including hitting the crossbar from a free-kick. Phillips gave West Ham’s Arthur Masuaku a hard time as Tony Pulis’ side stormed to an impressive 4-2 win. After a quiet game against Stoke, Phillips had arguably his performance in an Albion shirt away at Sunderland. He set up Nacer Chadli for the Baggies opener and looked a constant threat on the counter attack.
Verdict: Phillips is starting to string together some good performances in an Albion shirt. If he continues to improve then West Brom have grabbed themselves a bargain. Rating: B+
Brendan Galloway
Galloway joined on a season-long loan from Everton and made his debut in the EFL Cup against Northampton Town. He lasted 70 minutes before cramp saw him subbed off for Kane Wilson. His debut was one of few bright points in a disappointing defeat for Pulis’ side.
He followed this up with two solid performances against Middlesbrough and Bournemouth, linking up well with Nacer Chadi in the latter. However, he struggled to cope with Dimitri Payet in the second half of West Ham’s visit to the Hawthorns. With the Hammers looking dangerous, he was substituted for Allan Nyom who helped to quell West Ham’s momentum. Galloway didn’t make the squad for the trips to Stoke and Sunderland.
Verdict: Pulis prefers a more physical presence at fullback than Galloway. At least Albion finally have depth in this position with the imminent return of Chris Brunt. Rating: B-
Nacer Chadli
West Brom broke their transfer record to sign Chadli from Tottenham. The Belgian made his debut at the Vitality Stadium,starting on the left wing. Chadli showed glimpses of his class but couldn’t help Albion find a breakthrough.
For the visit of West Ham, Pulis switched Chadli from the left wing to a position just behind Salomon Rondon. It worked and Chadli’s home debut was one to remember as he played a part in all four goals – scoring two and assisting the other two. He couldn’t make the same impact against Stoke but showed his qualities the following weekend by putting Albion ahead at the Stadium of Light. Chadli looked dangerous as Pulis’ side were held to a draw by Sunderland.
Verdict: Chadli already appears to be a great piece of business from the Baggies. If Albion can keep him fit, he could be the key to a successful season for Pulis’ side. Rating: A
Allan Nyom
Nyom came off the bench against West Ham for his debut and helped the Baggies see out a nervy second half. The Cameron international’s performance saw him retain his place at left back for Albion’s next two fixtures against Stoke and Sunderland. Despite playing out of position, Nyom turned in had good outings in both games.
Verdict: Nyom is proving himself to be a good addition to Pulis’ defence. Playing at left back he has shown a versatility and physicality that Albion’s Head Coach appreciates. Rating: A
Hal Robson-Kanu
The former Reading man joined on deadline day but it yet to start a game for West Brom. The Welshman made late substitution appearances in Albion’s last three games and helped put the pressure on Stoke as West Brom found an equaliser at the Bet365 Stadium.
Verdict: We haven’t seen enough of Robson-Kanu yet but, notably, he has been the preferred option off the bench over Saido Berahino. Rating: B-
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