TONY Pulis has identified the need for a number of new recruits to rejuvenate the oldest squad in the top flight.

For several reasons, that rebuilding work has failed to materialise, as talk of a potential takeover continues to surround the Hawthorns.

And it has prompted fears among fans that West Brom are in for a hard season.

Pulis is a survival expert. He and Albion should have enough to stay up, but it won't always be pretty and it might not be as comfortable as last time out.

It is imperative West Brom make a fast start, not only to preserve their Premier League status, but to keep Pulis in a job. Supporters have put up with uninspiring football while results remained half decent.

But the Baggies ended the last campaign without a win in ninefi and there is not much goodwill left. …