West Brom will already be focused on a likely play-off semi-final against bitter rivals Aston Villa in what will be a huge clash for both clubs.

Many will see it as a real close game to call, with both sides boasting a squad full of quality and Premier League experience.

That means the managers will have some tough decisions to make and it appears Baggies boss Jimmy Shan will be leaving out the talented Matt Phillips.

The midfielder, who has scored five goals this season, has impressed in the past with his pace, power and ability to create chances in the final third.

Yet, Shan recently explained to the Express & Star that he knows his best Albion team, which will be a worry for Phillips as he hasn't started under the new boss yet.

A recent switch to a back three appears to be the way Albion are going to play moving forward and that is a problem for someone like the former Blackpool winger who predominantly plays out wide.

Mason Holgate has better defensive instincts so is more suited to a wing-back role, meaning Phillips' best chance of getting in the team come in central midfield.

Unfortunately for the player, Albion are well stocked in that position too, with Shan favouring club captain Chris Brunt since taking over.

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Elsewhere, Stefan Johansen, Rekeem Harper, Jake Livermore and Sam Field prove that competition for places is fierce in that department at The Hawthorns.

Ultimately, that means Phillips is probably going to miss out in these crunch games, although he may see Sunday's final game of the regular campaign at Derby as one last chance to impress.

With the play-offs looming, Shan is likely to rotate to keep his preferred XI fresh and available, so the Scotland international could be handed a start.

If he shows his undoubted talent then he could force his way up the pecking order for the play-offs, otherwise it's going to be a frustrating end to the season for Phillips.