Just a week on from the impressive performance away at Manchester City leading to praise from the media in general, a complete reverse. Lax marking. Dreadful distribution. Both frustrating traits but topped by the now expected total lack of attacking penetration. Post-match comments from Tony Pulis saying, “I thought we played very well and can’t believe we lost” were at odds with the opinions from the vast majority of grumbling supporters.

We didn’t play well and rarely looked a threat, all of this topped when Saidio Berahino, who up to then had a perfect penalty scoring record, missed not one but two. Fair play to the keeper but missing two – nuff said.

Without question Pulis recognises his ageing squad HAS to be strengthened before the start of next season and based on reports that the process of targeting new players has already begun that is good news. But before then lets not forget there are still five games remaining this season. On paper hopes of improving our current league position have to be considered slim. Particularly the next two, midweek away at Arsenal and then title-chasing Spurs. Ouch.

What, though, do I expect to be commenting on next week? Sadly, without a massive improvement it’s likely to be two defeats unless the Baggies can pull the veritable rabbit out of the hat, frustrating both Gunners and Spurs fans who will be confidently anticipating a certain three points each.