Why West Brom must try to land left-back Robinson

According to 72 (h/t Lancashire Live), West Brom are keeping close tabs on Wigan Athletic defender Antonee Robinson.

The 22-year-old left-back has been Wigan’s first-choice left-back this season under manager Paul Cook before a groin injury ruled him out of the side. The US international has made 29 league appearances for the Championship outfit and has five clean sheets to his name.

Robinson joined Wigan permanently last summer from Everton following an impressive loan spell with them last season. The young full-back has made 56 appearances for Wigan in such a short time, giving a clear idea of his talent and potential.

Despite his side’s poor show in the league this season, Robinson has enjoyed rare individual success, making him a target for rivals West Brom.

Robinson can offer West Brom consistency at left-back

The Baggies, on the other hand, are in sensational form and are almost certain to earn promotion to the Premier League. Slaven Bilic’s side are currently on top of the league standings and are ahead of 2nd-placed Leeds United on goal difference.

Despite, their excellent displays in the league, West Brom have failed to find a consistent left-back and their interest in Robinson does not come as a big surprise. At present, West Brom have veteran Kieran Gibbs and 27-year-old Conor Townsend in that role.

However, both of them have shared the left-back duties this term for Baggies, with boss Bilic mostly preferring Townsend over the more experienced Gibbs. A former Arsenal regular, Gibbs has mostly played second fiddle to Townsend, featuring 10 times in the league, while Townsend has made 21 league appearances this term.

However, the two of them have managed just one goal and two assists between them, suggesting that the side needs a new player in that role. Apart from these two, Bilic does not have any more options on the side and this could prove to be a major concern for them if they earn promotion to the top-flight.

Also, 30-year-old Gibbs has started to show signs of ageing as it has been evident from his limited appearances in the league this season. Considering all this, it would be safe for the Baggies to continue their pursuit of Robinson.

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Verdict

Despite his young age, Robinson has nailed down the left-back spot all for himself at Wigan and could be a great addition for West Brom. His arrival will only make them stronger and provide Townsend competition for a starting role in the side. Moreover, he is only 22 and can develop further under the guidance of a coach like Bilic.