Deployed slightly deeper than usual in a pre-season friendly against Crewe Alexandra at the weekend, Matty Phillips emerged as one of West Brom’s better performers on the day. The winger, who former Baggies boss Valerien Ismael saw as a striker, is once again proving his versatility and could be deemed as a central midfield option for when the new campaign begins.
Looking to possess the options to be able to operate within different systems, having a player like Phillips, who can put in strong performances whilst operating in an unfamiliar role is excellent for Steve Bruce.
When asked if there is scope for Phillips to continue as a central midfielder with the new Championship campaign in mind, Carlton Palmer told Football League World: “Well, I think it’s given Steve Bruce options.
Matt is a wide player, he can play wide on the right, wide on the left. “Steve’s tried him in the holding role in midfield and he’s adapted very well and played very well. “I don’t see him starting now.