West Bromwich began the 2022/23 season with a 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough and Matt Phillips was one of a few players who underwhelmed at the Riverside Stadium.

The 31-year-old was given the nod on the wing by Steve Bruce, likely to counteract the threat of Boro’s Isaiah Jones, but he didn’t vindicate the decision and ended up being hooked after the break.

Jones would open the scoring for Middlesbrough but Phillips was nowhere to be seen. The 31-year-old didn’t turn over the ball once and instead was guilty of giving away free-kicks. He created just one chance before being hauled off midway through the second half too, so it remains to be seen if Phillips will start West Brom’s next game.

Joseph Chapman of Birmingham Live gave the 31-year-old a player rating of 5/10 and was critical for his role in the build up to Middlesbrough’s goal while saying he had little ideas on the ball.

Against Boro, Phillips played for 67 minutes, had 24 touches, completed 90% of his 10 passes, created one chance, failed to have a shot, had two successful dribbles, failed to make a tackle, gave away two fouls, failed to make an interception, made one clearance and had three crosses with 66.66% finding a teammate.

With Grady Diangana waiting in the wings, time will tell if Phillips starts against Watford on Monday.

In other news, Karlan Grant struggled v Middlesbrough