Baggies have done their 'homework' over new striker

Tony Mowbray's Albion side scored five goals against Portsmouth on his first game back in The Hawthorns home technical area in 15 and a half years

West Bromwich Albion head coach Tony Mowbray says the Baggies have done their "homework" over a new striker as his recruitment team look at a variety of options ahead of Monday's January transfer window deadline.

Top scorer Josh Maja's injury, on top of the year-long absence of Daryl Dike, has led Mowbray to believe the Baggies will bring in a fresh face.

Saturday's 5-1 pummelling of Portsmouth did rather ease the pressure to make a signing as, even without a recognised striker, Mowbray's men registered the club's biggest win in more than five years.

But it seems more likely than not that they will bring in a new forward.

"We're trying to address the situation but it is important you get the right one," Mowbray told BBC Radio WM before Saturday's Championship trip to bottom club Plymouth Argyle.

"You've got to do your homework. I like technical footballers but I also understand there is sometimes the need for a six-foot-two striker who can play in the box and score a few goals.

"Let's see what the next few days bring. There's nothing concrete but there are a few irons in the fire and let's hope one comes good."

Daryl Dike believes he is close to a return almost a year on from his last Albion appearance

The search is being led by Albion sporting director Andrew Nestor and director of football operations Ian Pearce, the former Blackburn Rovers and Chelsea centre-half who could also play up front.

Mowbray plays no direct part in picking out targets but admitted: "I'm relaxed with it all. I know the structure of the club and I'm long enough in the tooth not to make it an issue.

"Twenty years ago I'd pick every single player with my head of recruitment. I'd try to get to watch them before we signed them or at least have a chat with them to get to know their character.

"But the game has changed. I know it's different now. At Sunderland, I had three players turn up one Monday morning and I didn't know who they were or where they played.

"All I do is work with the players and do enough on a Saturday to entertain the fans and hopefully make sure they go home happy."

One player getting closer to a return is United States international Dike, who told Mowbray this week he thinks he will be ready to play against Sheffield Wednesday a week on Saturday.

However, the Albion head coach is concerned that date may still be too soon for a player who last appeared in a 2-2 draw at Ipswich on 10 February 2024.

"Daryl must know himself he's not ready for a week on Saturday," added Mowbray.

"But let's see what the medical team think. Let's see if he can accelerate his workload in time to get him up to match speed."

Tony Mowbray was talking to BBC Radio WM's Steve Hermon