Ally Robertson: West Brom need two full backs

As things stand, Darnell Furlong and Conor Townsend are the only recognised full-backs in Steve Bruce’s squad.

Taylor Gardner-Hickman and Adam Reach deputised for those players at wing-back last season as the Baggies primary played with a back three.

But Bruce wants to switch to flat back four next year.

“Bruce has said he wants to play with a back four next season so we now have to build a squad for that,” said Robertson who made more than 600 appearances for the club between 1969 and 1986.

“The squad had been built for a back three.

“But we only really have two full-backs so we need cover.

“More importantly, we need players who can compete for a starting spot to bring the best out of Conor Townsend and Darnell Furlong.

“We need to build a squad so that everyone is fighting for their place.”

Former manager Valerien Ismael – who played as a centre-back for Bayern Munich – felt both Furlong and Townsend were at their best when deployed at wing-back.

But Bruce – who played as a centre-back for Manchester United – believes they are more suited to being full-backs.

And Robertson, one of Albion’s greatest ever central defenders, agrees with Bruce.

“For me, they are both full-backs,” Robertson added.

“All full-backs today have to be able to get the ball forward and go.

“We had a fantastic one in my day with Derek Statham.

“When he was on the ball he was like a winger.

“But he could do the defensive side as well.

“I can’t imagine what he’d be worth in today’s game.

“When you are playing wing-back, though, there is that bit extra attacking responsibility.

“Furlong and Townsend have a lot of attacking strengths.

“But I do think they are better suited to be being full-backs.”