Historical foes West Brom and Burnley in battle of Hawthorns

As West Bromwich Albion and visitors Burnley prepare for their encounter at The Hawthorns, a small slice of history is being forged.

These two teams have never faced each other in the Premier League before, although they first clashed in the old Division One way back in September 1888.

The Baggies emerged triumphant on that occasion, earning themselves what looks to have been a thrilling 4-3 win, and are 150/1 to repeat that scoreline in this modern day meeting. West Brom, evens to claim all three points, also hold a more recent historical head-to-head advantage, with the Clarets having failed to defeat them at home since 1969.

Beleagured Albion boss Alan Irvine has felt the pressure ease a little recently, following his side’s surprise victory over Tottenham, and their subsequent Capital One Cup win over Hull City.

Speaking before the game, Irvine stated: “It’s really important that we follow up two good results and good performances with another one. We can’t think that it is going to just happen now.”

Albion now appear re-energised and will be aiming to secure back-to-back Premier League victories and what would be their first league win on home turf this term.

In team news, the Baggies face a possible striker shortage, with Nigeria forward Brown Ideye a doubt after limping off with an ankle injury midweek against Hull. Clubmate and compatriot Victor Anichebe is also unlikely to feature following a hernia operation.

This should leave the path clear for England hopeful Saido Berahino to be the main man up front. The Under-21 international is Albion’s top scorer, having netted three in all competitions, and bagged a brace against the Tigers last time out.

Berahino is available at 9/1 to score two or more once again, and opposition outfit Burnley must surely be wishing they had a potent poacher up top to compete with the young starlet.