West Bromwich Albion midfielder Matty Phillips has taken to Instagram to share an unusual image of himself in Baggies colours.

The 28-year-old added an image of himself on the pitch that had been doctored to make him look like an old person.

The post was added to his Instagram story (@phillips1303) earlier today.

Phillips was impressive during West Brom's first season back in the Championship, scoring five times and providing six assists in 30 league appearances, but saw his season hampered by injury.

The Baggies were unable to secure an instant return to the Premier League, finishing fourth and losing to Aston Villa in the play-offs, but will determined to set that right in the upcoming campaign.

The winger will want to play a more important role this season but may have to prove to new boss Slaven Bilic that he can be a useful weapon ahead of the Championship opener against Nottingham Forest on 3rd August.

West Brom players returned for training at the end of June but are yet to play any pre-season fixtures.

The Baggies begin their pre-season schedule on Saturday with a visit to Glanford Park to play Scunthorpe, before playing Rotherham United at the New York Stadium next Tuesday, and finishing with a clash against Bournemouth at the Hawthorns next Friday.

The Verdict

West Brom came frustratingly close last season and the club will be hoping that with Bilic at the helm they can get over the line in 2019/20.

Given the interruptions he faced due to injury last season, Phillips will likely be keen to ensure he is a mainstay in the side this season and can help them get back to the Premier League.

The wide midfielder has a good record in the Championship and should be a key player for Bilic during his first year in charge.

The Instagram post indicates that he is in high spirits and is relaxed ahead of the new season, which should please supporters of the Birmingham club.