West Brom may have dodged an almighty bullet this summer.

It's no secret that one of their weakest positions is on the right flank, it's why Slaven Bilic has recently reverted back to a wing-back system. And that paid off on Saturday night as the Baggies clinched their first win of the season.

Matheus Pereira thrived centrally in the no.10 role, at last, running the show for Albion completely.

Last season, Bilic often deployed Matty Phillips as his right-sided midfielder but it's clear to see that he just doesn't fancy him in the Premier League, so it was no surprise to see them linked with potential additions in the role throughout the transfer window.

Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend emerged as a late target for the Midlands outfit - according to The Sun's Alan Nixon, West Brom were keen admirers of the former England international but did not have the funds to follow-up their interest.

And that is now looking like a masterstroke of a decision as the 29-year-old has failed to continue his spout of early-season form. It is now seven straight games without a single goal or an assist, whilst he has been dispossessed most by some of the division's flailing sides - Fulham (four times) and Burnley (twice).

Reports suggest that Townsend is earning around £80k-per-week at Selhurst Park, which puts him among their highest earners, so it would have been one expensive gamble to try and secure his signature as no Albion player is on anywhere near that amount right now.

The £8.55m-rated wide man was once lauded by former Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas as a "fearless player" but when he's on the opposition's team sheet, he doesn't quite have the spine-chilling effect that a Wilfried Zaha has.

With the Eagles star averaging just 1.6 dribbles, 1.5 key passes and 1.1 shots per game this season, via WhoScored, sporting director Luke Dowling and the Baggies have certainly had one lucky escape.

They mustn't revisit him in January, even if his contract is due to expire in the summer.

AND in other news, West Brom's "huge talent" has just given Slaven Bilic one big selection headache...