West Brom made a big mistake in signing Branislav Ivanovic [Opinion]

West Bromwich Albion suffered a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United and, as seen by the fan reaction below, Branislav Ivanovic was widely criticised for his performance.

The 36-year-old started alongside Kyle O’Shea and Semi Ajayi at centre-back but struggled to contain Callum Wilson, Joelinton and Dwight Gayle.

For Newcastle’s first goal, Ivanovic lost his balance when trying to clear a long ball aimed for Wilson, inadvertently laying on a pass for the Newcastle striker, who played his part in Miguel Almiron scoring after only 19 seconds.

Later in the first half, Ivanovic was outpaced to a through ball by Joelinton from a quick free kick and dived in when the Newcastle striker faked a shot which resulted in him being on the floor while he had a chance at goal.

West Brom found an equaliser in the second half but conceded again when Ivanovic was beaten to a cross by Dwight Gayle, who headed to the net to seal all three points for Newcastle. The irony of the ex-Baggies marksman haunting his former club was certainly strong, but Slaven Bilic won’t be laughing.

Ivanovic was at fault for both goals and these West Brom supporters weren’t too kind on social media.

Ivanovic, Lugano and Anelka to name a few. Has signing an old head or veteran in the Premiership ever worked out for us? Struggling to think of any? 💁‍♂️ #wba

— Sunil Patel (@sjpatel212) December 13, 2020

I would have Hegazi over Ivanovic all day long, he’s tripe. Gibbs should have started & Austin looks like the only proper striker we have. Glad he got some game time today. This season is so depressing and can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. Dreading Tuesday! #wba

— Andy (@baggieandy79) December 12, 2020

Thought Ivanovic was partly at fault for both goals . Another poor performance from him. Think it is starting to become clear that he is not going to another Mcauely. Gareth was able to roll back the years but unfortunately Ivanovic plays like an old man , footballing terms #wba

— James Hamilton (@JamesHamiltonGK) December 12, 2020

The idea behind the Ivanovic signing made sense, but he’s yet to have a good game for us and physically he looks like he can’t compete any more. Kipre must be wondering what he needs to do to be given a chance #WBA

— James Cameron (@JimBobCameron) December 12, 2020

READ WEST BROM VERDICT

The Serbian international has made eight appearances in all competitions since joining Albion over the summer, but he has conceded 13 goals and has only been on the winning side once [Transfermarkt].

Ivanovic won three Premier League titles, three FA Cups, one League Cup and one Champions League at Chelsea between 2008 and 2017, but based on his recent displays, he looks finished at the top level now.

In other news, West Brom are in the hunt for a highly-coveted Football League talent.