Fantasy Premier League 2021 – Promoted Teams Preview
West Brom
Fixtures
Attack 97%
Defence 51%
There is definitely potential in this West Brom side. Bilic had a good spell with West Ham before it all fell apart and he’s managed to get West Brom promoted at the first attempt. The fixtures also suggest there’s potential, with some porous defences to come like Everton, Chelsea (yes, Chelsea!) and Southampton.
Main Pick
Matheus Pereira (MID, 6.0m)
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder was the catalyst for West Brom’s promotion. He took last season by storm scoring 8 goals and registering 16 assists! The sum 6.0m is a fairly hefty price tag for a promoted player, so you’re relying on him to hit the ground running, but he has a good relationship with former FPL favourite Charlie Austin who has Premier League experience (18 goals in 2014/15) and that partnership will be vital if West Brom are going to stay up.
Differential Pick
Grady Diangana (MID, 5.5m)
West Ham sold the youngster last week and it could be the straw that broke that particular camel’s back. But the Hammers’ loss is the Baggies’ gain and they will be pleased to have him back after a successful loan spell last year!
He scored 8 goals and got 6 assists, and at 22 there is still plenty more to come from the youngster. He will be keen to prove he can make it in the Premier League as well, after the circumstances surrounding his sale.
Defensive Pick
David Button/Sam Johnstone (GK, 4.0m/4.5m)
If you absolutely want to spend the minimum on your goalkeepers for the season, this is the way to do it. Have them both, one will definitely play and if he gets injured the other will step in.
West Brom’s defensive record last year was not too bad either, conceding just 4 more than Sheffield United did in their promotion year. You will get plenty of save points and if they can manage a handful of clean sheets then that’s a bonus.
Steer Clear
Hal Robson-Kanu (FWD, 5.5m)
Like a few other players in the promoted sides, HRK has had chances in the Premier League before and failed to take them. His highest tally was 7 goals back in 2012/13 (showing just how old he is). He might get a few chances given Austin’s injury record, but I would prefer to pick his teammate, seeing as they are the same price, and hope Austin stays fit!