Stoke v West Brom preview: A positive start but Ryan Mason and Albion face big early Championship test

It was another summer of change for Albion - albeit the turnover of players has been slightly less than it was back in the summer of 2024.

However, with a new, rookie manager coming in, there was a feeling of not knowing quite what to expect when the Championship campaign kicked off earlier this month.

An opening day draw to Blackburn Rovers was the perfect start and the ideal way for Mason to announce himself to the Albion fans.

It was a performance that had a smattering of positives, from attacking play, clinical finishing and a resolute and solid backline that was willing to stand up to a late Blackburn onslaught.

That was one test out of the way. The second came in the form of the newly promoted Wrexham and all the Hollywood fanfare that comes with it.

For all of Albion's Championship experience, it was surprising that prior to the game many saw the 'Hollywood Reds' as favourites - given their summer spending and the story that surrounds them.

But Albion answered more questions and had too much quality for Wrexham - largely down to the sparkling Isaac Price who made it three goals in his first two league matches.

And then last week's draw with Portsmouth was a game marred in refereeing controversy but one that still brought around positive elements.

The return and impact of Mikey Johnston and the latest forceful performance of Aune Heggebo - coupled with another pretty resolute defensive display aside from one slip up.

It was a point that could have been three - but a point nonetheless that took Albion to seven from the first three games. Although it came with disappointment, there wouldn't have been many Albion fans out there who would have turned that down a few weeks ago.

Mason himself might have taken it too.

So on the whole it has been a positive start - but the first collective big test for Mason and his new Baggies comes this weekend in the form of a rejuvenated Stoke City.

Following his superb exploits with Coventry City - he looks to have set about trying to not just emulate it but go one further with the Potters.

After years of languishing near the foot of the table and flirting with relegation like they did last season - their fortunes seem to have turned around.

Their recruitment in the past has been questionable - but this summer it looks to have been pretty smart.

Signing experience in the form of Aaron Cresswell has been coupled with bringing in young loanees such as Tottenham's Jamie Donley and Man City's Divin Mubama.

The latter has impressed so far - but provides a boost to Albion following his sending off last week in their victory over Southampton.

One of only two sides to win their opening three games - they are the early pace setters and provide another challenge for Mason's side to face.

It is their biggest test yet - but all the signs from their three league performances and their display in the cup show they have the capabilities to come back from the Potteries with all three points.