Brunt to make Diangana call as attacker axed – West Brom predicted XI v Preston.

Chris Brunt could make one change to his West Brom starting lineup when the Baggies return to The Hawthorns against Preston North End. Mikey Johnston, who has recently been off the bench, might be replaced by Grady Diangana as his injury recovery progresses. With the hectic schedule of games approaching, a slight rotation could be implemented, as Brunt is poised to take charge of his third game as temporary coach. With Alex Mowatt missing the 1-1 draw at Sheffield United on December 29 due to a minor injury, Ousmane Diakite could continue to play in the middle of the park with Jayson Molumby.

Brunt could drop Johnston for West Brom v Preston

Johnston was just getting back into the swing of regular starts when Carlos Corberan left the club, having seldom started in the Championship until October. The Irishman will now want to continue his momentum under the new boss, but for the time being, was started by Brunt at Bramall Lane before being replaced by Diangana. Alex Palmer and the same back four are expected to remain, with Torbjorn Heggem filling in at centre-back and Callum Styles at left-back.