Monday evening marks the return of Premier League football after last week’s international break; a break that came at an opportune time for both West Brom and Burnley.
The disappointing and deserved loss to Southampton on the south coast was another reality check for Bilic and his staff, who would’ve been desperate to capitalise on the promising 3-3 draw with Chelsea in their last home game.
Instead, a single point from four games only emphasises West Brom’s already well-documented defensive shortcomings and lack of a consistent goal threat.
Time will tell if Karlan Grant is the £15 million solution to Albion’s lack of firepower but Thursday’s announcement represents a step in the right direction for an attack that was directionless a fortnight ago.
But as we cast an eye forward to Monday’s fixture versus Burnley it is no secret that the Clarets also find themselves in a rut. Three games, three goals and three defeats.
The famed, perhaps exaggerated, rigid and pragmatic style of football that has been the lifeblood of one of the top flight’s most underappreciated teams may be coming unstuck as Dyche seems increasingly frustrated with Burnley’s meagre budget and lack of ambition.
For those who can afford to view Monday’s encounter we’ll explore what we can potentially expect to see from both sides. Clearly Burnley are beatable, but can Bilic’s boys better them in what is already an incredibly important game for both clubs?
WBA Report 