With the Championship season just five days away from beginning once more, clubs are desperate to complete as many transfers as possible before the window shuts. West Bromwich Albion are no different as they look to recruit more additions before August 3rd.
However, taking a look at their squad, there are five key players which could prove to be crucial in their challenge for promotion to the Premier League this coming season.
SAM JOHNSTONE
The young keeper has received mixed reviews so far in his Albion career. It was never going to be easy for the 26-year-old to replace fans’ favourite Ben Foster who enjoyed an incredibly impressive seven years at the club.
Johnstone had some good performances however there were some mistakes made by the former Aston Villa man throughout the season. Still in his mid 20’s he is by no means the finished article and this could be the season where he really comes of age. With strikers currently at a premium at the club, the defence and in particular Johnstone could be even more important.
AHMED HEGAZI
The Egyptian was a pivotal player in the last campaign alongside the now departed Craig Dawson. He missed a few games towards the latter stages of the season through injury and his presence was missed. In his time at the club in the Premier League he was rather inconsistent but the big centre half really came into his own last season.
With Dawson having left for Watford and the new signing of Semi Ajayi needing an experienced centre back partner to bed in alongside, Hegazi could be vital this season.
FILIP KROVINOVIC
On loan from Benfica, Krovinovic has already played a large part in West Brom’s pre-season games and has adapted seamlessly so far. Likened to Luka Modric by Croatian West Brom fan Goran Ivanisevic, the little playmaker has linked up the play brilliantly so far.
With the departure of James Morrison who was the Baggies’ previous attacking midfielder, Krovinovic could have an important role to play.
MATT PHILLIPS
Winger Matt Phillips has struggled with injuries throughout parts of his Albion career but he is undoubtedly one of the star performers within the team. With his pace and direct style of play he is crucial to allowing West Brom to move the ball quickly upfield and away from danger.
There was some speculation regarding his future but this has quietened in recent weeks and he now looks set to stay at the Hawthorns and should he stay injury free he will be an important cog in Bilic’s wheel.
KENNETH ZOHORE
New signing Kenneth Zohore has a major job on his hands trying to fill the void left by the departures of Jay Rodriguez and Dwight Gayle. Signed from Cardiff City, the frontman’s goalscoring record is pale in comparison to the players he is attempting replace but with a pacy, clinical striker alongside him he could get himself in amongst the goals this campaign.
He will be allowed time to settle in and with the added creativity of Krovinovic and other new signing Romaine Sawyers, this could be the striker’s chance to shine.
