West Brom winger Mikey Johnston rejected late interest to stay and fight for relegation with the Baggies, the Express and star has revealed.
West Brom have had a challenging season, both on and off the pitch. While the hierarchy appears to be stabilizing financially, WBA is embroiled in a relegation battle in the championship.
Eric Ramsay’s appointment as a replacement for Ryan Mason has failed to deliver the desired improvements, and fears are growing among the Hawthorns faithful over a shock drop to League One.
The coaching staff and players will do everything they can to avoid that fate. Other players at other clubs may have been tempted to jump ship, but one man determined to help West Brom out of the morass is winger Mikey Johnston.
The Express and star has revealed that Johnston has turned down deadline day interest from other clubs to stay with WBA. Trabzonspor were keenly interested and prepared to make a bid, and an unnamed Premier League side were also interested, but the 26-year-old wanted to stay.
Mikey Johnston championed West Brom’s cause despite growing concerns
West Bromwich Albion FC News
Johnston’s stance on his exit options will only increase his popularity among West Brom fans. He was already highly regarded, but his determination to help them avoid relegation only improves that relationship.
With two goals and nine assists in 29 Championship games this season, the former Celtic man is one of the few strong players for the Baggies. However, there was frustration at Ramsay’s use of him as the new boss’ back three did not facilitate the wingers.
There are strong arguments that the system needs to be tweaked to get the best out of WBA’s best players. Ramsay has stuck with what has worked for him so far, but that could change as the pressure mounts.
Despite not playing in his best role, Johnston is committed to the survival bid. We hope he can return to his productive levels to bring about a much-needed turnaround.
Mikey Johnston’s West Brom stats
West Brom teammates must emulate Johnston’s fight
West Brom fans are waiting under Ramsay for signs of encouragement from their side. One point in his four games in charge, which included heavy defeats to relegation candidates Norwich City and Portsmouth, has left fans scared.
Johnston plays in a line-up that doesn’t quite suit his characteristics, but he doesn’t give up the fight. That same hunger to get out of this dismal position must be matched by everyone at WBA.
Just the willingness to change their situation can go a long way, even in the face of tactical problems and squad shortages. It is up to the team and coaches to act this season and prevent disaster.
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