West Bromwich Albion sit in 17th place in the Premier League, just one point ahead of Sunderland after a disappointing 1-1 draw with Fulham. After the game Manchester City loanee Scott Sinclair expressed his displeasure at the club because he is not featuring regularly in the side.
Head Coach Pepe Mel has assured Sinclair that he will feature in the side going forward, but can he help Albion reach safety?
The former Swansea man has been less than impressive during his loan spell, missing several games due to injury and subsequently falling down the pecking order at The Hawthorns. When he has played he offered little going forward despite his electric pace and seemed uninterested when Albion didn’t have the ball.
He is the type of player the side will need to carry if things are not going well, something which has been the case during his 10 appearances this season. His rare flashes of brilliance are often followed up with a poor pass or lacklustre defending. If he is to play more games during the run in he will have to increase his work rate for the side.
During a relegation battle it is important that the players perform for one another, putting their bodies on the line, working to the maximum of their ability to get themselves out of the situation. Sinclair hasn’t shown that when in the blue and white stripes and if given the chance is something he will need to work on.
However, there must be a reason Man City decided to spend over 6 million for the winger. He has shown at Swansea he is a quality player and has the beating of defenders in the Premier League. He has fantastic acceleration and even had goals in his game. The Englishman managed to score 28 from the wide roles in just 74 league starts for the Welsh club showing his lethal touch. But for whatever reason his career has stalled during the past two years and is affecting his overall game play.
If Pepe Mel can get the best out of the 24 year old West Brom will have a player of real quality on their hands. On his day he has the ability to take on defenders and send in some inch perfect deliveries to the strikers waiting in the box.
On the pitch he should be able to link up well with former Everton striker Victor Anichebe. The Nigerian is the perfect outlet for the team, especially Sinclair when he looks the cross the ball. Also Anichebe’s hold up play will benefit the winger as he can use his pace to get in behind the defenders to great chances for The Baggies.
If Mel thinks Sinclair is ready for the side and he is willing to work hard, fighting for his place he has the chance to get his career back on track. But if he continues he previous form for West Brom he will be straight back on the bench.
Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
