Nigerian striker Josh Maja is set to be absent from West Bromwich Albion’s lineup for an extended period, missing at least eight weeks of action due to an ankle ligament injury. This unfortunate setback will see him sidelined for approximately 10 games, significantly impacting the club’s attacking options.
The injury occurred during the second-half stoppage time of West Brom’s recent match, a goalless draw against Bristol City at Ashton Gate. Maja’s absence presents a challenging situation for West Brom’s coach, Carlos Corberan, who now has limited options for the center-forward role. Brandon Thomas-Asante is the only fit choice at the moment, as another potential option, Daryl Dike, is also sidelined due to injury.
West Bromwich Albion’s medical staff have outlined a rehabilitation plan for Maja, which includes a period of rest and targeted treatment to aid in his recovery. They anticipate that he will be ready to return to first-team action following the November international break. This timeline means that Maja will miss a substantial portion of the upcoming fixtures, which will undoubtedly be a significant loss for the club.
That run of fixtures sees them host Millwall, Sheffield Wednesday, Plymouth, QPR, and Hull at The Hawthorns, while also traveling to face Watford, Preston, Birmingham, Coventry, and Southampton.
While Maja’s absence will be some setback for the Baggies, the striker will also have to work twice as hard to get back into the team on his return having struggled to establish himself in the Championship. He has made five appearances from the bench this season and he is yet to score a goal.
Maja joined West Brom back in the summer transfer window, returning to England to link up with the Championship side on a free transfer, after his contract with French club Bordeaux expired.
The 24-year-old signed a three-year contract with the Baggies, securing his future at The Hawthorns until the end of the 2025/26 season.
West Brom currently sits 13th in the Championship table having taken eight points from six games since the start of the campaign.