Since returning to the Championship they’ve overcome some major injury issues to reach the World Cup in a decent position, one which they’ll hope to improve in the weeks ahead.
So who has impressed so far and who has work to do? Here, we’ve collated our player ratings from the season so far and calculated each player’s average to find out.
To ensure a fair overview we’ve only included players with at least four appearances.
Tony Mowbray will hope that Dan Ballard has a big part to play after the break following his impressive but limited early showings, while Niall Huggins also underlined his potential in the win over Birmingham City in what was his first game for over a year.
He believes that will leave his side with the depth he needs to make a real impact at the level…
17. EDOUARD MICHUT - 5.8
Has looked tidy in possession and his last appearance at Luton Town was his best, looking like he’d found a role in Evans’ usual deep-lying position. But he suffered another injury in the process, which sums up his spell so far. Just hasn’t quite been able to get going, and will hope for a run of games after the break. Photo: Frank Reid
18. JAY MATETE - 6.1
Has had some good cameos off the bench under Mowbray, showing his athleticism and ability to break up play and carry the ball forward. Will hope he’s earning more opportunities later in the season. Photo: Frank Reid
19. ELLIS SIMMS - 6.4
Made a remarkable impact after joining on loan, one that he understandably couldn’t quite sustain to the same extent. Still, even when well short of fitness his return from injury showed the importance of having a focal point up front. His valuable goal against Birmingham should have sent him into the break full of confidence. Mowbray has been keen to stress that this is still a young striker learning their trade. Photo: FRANK REID
20. ROSS STEWART - 7.7
A relatively small sample size due to injury but the Scot more than proved his ability in a blistering start to the season. The team has looked poorer in his absence and keeping him fit looks like it will be defining in terms of where the club finish this campaign. Photo: Ian Horrocks