New West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel would've probably liked an easier first fixture, as he prepares to face high-flying Everton on Monday night. Under the guidance of his compatriot Roberto Martínez, the Toffees have had an excellent start to the season. They'd leapfrog Spurs and Merseyside rivals Liverpool with a win, and move up into a Champions League spot.
West Bromwich Albion vs. Everton: Preview and TV schedule
New West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel has been handed a tough first fixture, with the Baggies welcoming Everton to The Hawthorns on Monday.
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In contrast, West Brom have been underwhelming so far this season. They’re currently down in 14th place, and are only three points above the relegation zone. Their squad looks way too good to go down, though the Baggies have underwhelmed so far -- not least considering they were pushing for Europe for much of last season.
Mel has only a couple of absentees for his first game in charge, with Billy Jones and Goran Popov both sidelined. Everton are in a slightly less salubrious position, with star player Ross Barkley sidelined with a string of other rotation players.
West Bromwich Albion injuries and suspensions
Out: Billy Jones (eye), Goran Popov (neck). In doubt: Victor Anichebe (groin).
Everton injuries and suspensions
Out: Ross Barkley (toe), Antolín Alcaraz (muscle), Gerard Deulofeu (hamstring), Darron Gibson (knee), Arouna Koné (knee). In doubt: None.
Projected lineups
West Bromwich Albion: Ben Foster; Liam Ridgewell, Jonas Olsson, Gareth McAuley, Steven Reid; Claudio Yacob, Youssouf Mulumbu; Chris Brunt, Stéphane Sessègnon, Morgan Amalfitano; Nicolas Anelka.
Everton: Tim Howard; Leighton Baines, John Stones, Phil Jagielka, Séamus Coleman; Gareth Barry, James McCarthy; Steven Pienaar, Leon Osman, Kevin Mirallas; Romelu Lukaku.
Match Date/Time: Monday, 8 p.m. local, 3 p.m. ET
Venue: The Hawthorns, West Bromwich, England
TV: NBCSN (U.S.), Sportsnet World (Canada), Sky Sports 1/HD (U.K.)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S.), Sky Go (U.K.)
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