Shakespeare's Focus On West Brom

Craig Shakespeare expects West Bromwich Albion to carry a considerable attacking threat when in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.

The Baggies have proven their critics wrong again this season and sit comfortably in the top half of the table – where they have been since November – but their style of play still attracts conversation. Shakespeare, however, believes West Brom can “mix it up” tactically in search of three points. 

The City boss knows victory in the West Midlands would take his side to the fabled 40-point mark with just four matches remaining of the 2016/17 campaign, three of which are at home. Defeat to Tony Pulis’ men, however, could further tighten the gap at the bottom and create a nervous finale to the season. 

Shakespeare said: “[West Brom] can mix it up, they are very disciplined in terms of defence and shape. They added flair in [Matty] Phillips and [Nacer] Chadli, who are very big threats at set plays.

"This is the part [of the job] I enjoy, you need an idea of their threats and weaknesses but also your own strengths. 

"We want to create more chances but the opposition have a big bearing on that.” 

Following the disappointment of defeat at Arsenal on Wednesday night, Shakespeare will make a late assessment of Wes Morgan and Islam Slimani before deciding on their fitness.

Whoever takes to the field, however, the City boss expects his side to command more of the possession at the Hawthorns. 

“We expect more of ball but who knows on Saturday," he added. "We’ve told the players to try and inject more tempo. The players will tell you that I want maximum points.

"There are 15 available – two tough away games, three at home, why can’t we challenge to get the lot? I always think it is nice for the fans and the players to finish on a high and go on family holidays. I don't want the players to go on a downer.”