Southampton predicted XI as Stephens and Charles set to return at West Brom | OneFootball

According to Sainstmarching.com, Southampton visit the Hawthorns for the first time since the 2024 play-offs in the second of three games this week. West Brom, on their third manager of the season, badly need points to pull clear of the relegation zone. Victory could move Tonda Eckert's side within one point of the play-off places after Wrexham's midweek slip at Hull City.

Eckert is tipped to stick with a 4-2-3-1. He confirmed on Tuesday that captain Jack Stephens will return after resting on Sunday, while Shea Charles is back in the squad, though not certain to start. Welington remains sidelined.

Daniel Peretz continues in goal after impressing since January. James Bree is set to start at right back, with Taylor Harwood-Bellis partnering Stephens in central defence after skippering the 1-0 win at Fulham in the cup. Ryan Manning keeps his place at left back.

Flynn Downes anchors midfield with Cam Bragg expected to come in, given Caspar Jander's recent dip and Charles' fitness question. Finn Azaz should operate as the No 10 after shining at Fulham.

Kuryu Matsuki is likely to reclaim the right-wing spot after Tom Fellows started on Sunday. Leo Scienza continues on the left as a key creative outlet. Ross Stewart is expected to lead the line, with Eckert focusing on one game at a time despite a lunchtime clash with Coventry City on Sunday.

Source: Sainstmarching.com