West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Mowbray is contemplating a defensive reshuffle ahead of the upcoming Championship fixture against Millwall at The Den. The need for adjustments arises from the suspension of key defender Kyle Bartley, who is serving the second of a three-match ban following his dismissal after the Sheffield Wednesday game.
In Bartley’s absence, Mowbray has expressed concerns about the team’s aerial defense, particularly after the 2-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers. He highlighted the lack of dominance in aerial duels, stating, “Bartley is a huge miss for the team because he’s a huge centre-half who can dominate aerially really.”
To address this vulnerability, Mowbray is considering bringing back Semi Ajayi into the starting lineup. Ajayi, who recently returned to the bench after a three-month injury layoff, possesses significant height and physical presence, attributes that could bolster the defense against Millwall’s attacking threats. Mowbray acknowledged Ajayi’s readiness, noting, “He’s fit enough to be considered to start.”
The manager also emphasized the importance of a strong response from his team following the recent defeat. He challenged his players to be braver and more resilient, especially in challenging environments like The Den. “The Den is a really tough place to go, the crowd create an environment every game where everything is difficult,” Mowbray remarked.
As the Baggies prepare for this crucial encounter, Mowbray’s potential defensive adjustments and the team’s overall response will be pivotal in their quest to return to winning ways.
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