West Bromwich Albion manager Carlos Corberan has laid down a challenge for striker Josh Maja, emphasizing the need for improved fitness if he wants to secure a starting position for the team. Maja, who joined West Brom from Bordeaux this summer, has faced challenges related to both fitness and injuries, limiting his playing time to 132 minutes in the Championship.
Despite scoring his first goal for West Brom against Leicester City on December 2, Corberan believes Maja must enhance his fitness levels to contribute more minutes to matches. In a statement quoted by the Express & Star on December 5, Corberan acknowledged Maja’s goal-scoring prowess, citing his impressive record in Ligue 2 where he was the leading scorer, but emphasized the importance of being ready to compete with the team.
The manager expressed understanding for the challenges Maja has faced with fitness and injuries but highlighted the necessity for him to be available and ready for extended playing time. West Brom currently faces a shortage of attacking options, with Brandon Thomas-Asante being the only recognized striker in recent months.
Maja was brought in to address West Brom’s goal-scoring issues, given his successful stint in France where he scored 16 goals in Ligue 2. However, a combination of injuries and fitness challenges has hindered his desired impact. Despite showing promise, Maja faced a setback with an injury against Bristol City, keeping him out for most of September and the entirety of October and November.
With Maja demonstrating readiness and hunger to contribute, Corberan hopes that the striker can stay injury-free and continue to build his fitness. The manager suggests that Maja’s inclusion in the starting XI may not be far off, especially considering the current struggles of Thomas-Asante in finding the net since October. Corberan also provided a triple injury update for West Brom, including information on Matt Phillips.
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