Preston have not won away at West Brom in living memory (well I am only young). In fact the last time they picked up a point at the Hawthorns seems a very long time ago.
Simpson now has to decide on his team after a dismal display to Morecambe in mid-week saw Preston dumped out of the League Cup. For what it is worth preston like last Saturday had the majority of the pressure but failed to turn that pressure into goals. Added with a superb finish and a goalkeeping howler just made the night go worst.
Henderson in goals will be under scrutiny after a schoolboy error on Tuesday. Matt Hill a West Brom target will be challenging Davidson for the left back position whilst captain Alexander is set to return at right back. st Ledger and Mawene will be given every opportunity to forge a partnership at the back.
Carter should start against his former club and has looked promising alongside Nicholls in midfield which is one of the positives to come from the first week. Whaley and Pugh will be under pressure if they do not produce with Lewis Neal banging on the door.
Mellor and Ormerod may not have been given enough chances from the wide men but need to start scoring soon otherwise changes will be made. New signing Carroll will likely be on the bench with the lively Hawley ready to come on.
For Preston to succeed would not be a miracle but hard work and determination. Simpson has the players at his disposal but there needs to be no mistakes as well as the front players to have a good game if goals are to be scored. It might just be the right time for Preston with West Brom suffering an opening day defeat and anyone who comes to the Hawthorns can expect a tough game this season.