Strikes from Christian Benteke and Gabby Agbonlahor are not enough as the Baggies boing back to rescue a point in midlands derby clash. Here’s the Stock Check on Saturday’s evening kick-off…
On the Up
Christian Benteke
A superb turn and an exocet shot that arrowed into Ben Foster’s net, handed Benteke his seventh goal of the season. The Belgian continues to be Paul Lambert’s key player and the sole Fantasy temptation in the Villa squad. With the Newcastle failing back four up next, Benteke’s chances of scoring back-to-back goals looks enticing.
Charles N’Zogbia
A former Fantasy favourite, at times in the first half, the former Latics winger sparkled and showed glimpses of talent that once made him a serious proposition. A brace of assists will immediately re-introduce him to the radar and, having made just his fourth start of the season, N’Zogbia he could yet emerge as a mid-price prospect in a Villa midfield that’s been bereft of Fantasy options.
Chris Brunt
Rather like the Norwich midfield assets, it appears that Brunt has been on a see-saw with James Morrsion as the main source of points for the Baggies in the middle of the park. A second goal in five games promotes Brunt’s stock this time around and arguably helps to oust Morrison as the primary target in Steve Clarke’s midfield.
Going Down
The West Brom Defence
With Gareth McAuley owned by over 8% of Fantasy Premier League managers and Ben Foster claiming over 6%, the Baggies rearguard goes on disappointing. Having started the season with three shut-outs in the opening five fixtures, Clarke’s side have gone six without defensive returns, conceding more than a single goal in their last four. It’s one clean sheet in 13 league outings, although McAuley’s assist for Odemwingie’s equaliser will sweeten that pill for tonight at least.
