17-01-2025, 22:39
Another week goes by with the manager's chair vacant, though if rumour is to be believed, this'll be the last weekend of limbo: Tony Mowbray is expected to be in the stands for tomorrow's fixture against Stoke, and provided there are no further hiccups, come Tuesday's visit to Middlesbrough it'll be as if the last sixteen years never happened.
So, what can Tony expect to treated to on the morrow? Albion seem to have regained some solidity at home over the last month, winning three on the bounce at the Hawthorns; our best record in almost a year. Meanwhile, Stoke under Mark Robins are unbeaten in three as they aim to put a bit more distance between themselves and the relegation zone; with by far the tightest defence in the bottom third of the table, it wouldn't surprise me in the least if they aim for the 0-0 draw and take anything else they can get. The loss of Josh Maja is an enormous blow for the Baggies, somewhat increasing the chances of an afternoon of frustration, but we still have to regard this as a winnable match and proceed accordingly.
Tuesday night will bring whatever it brings, and there's no knowing what that'll be. But three points this week, one way or another, would be a good solid way for Brunty to hand over the reins.
"I would rather spend a holiday in Tuscany than in the Black Country, but if I were compelled to choose between living in West Bromwich or Florence, I should make straight for West Bromwich." - J.B. Priestley