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West Brom: Sam Johnstone tipped to stay with the Baggies
Former England striker Kevin Phillips believes that Sam Johnstone will remain at West Brom despite interest from Premier League clubs.
The Lowdown: Johnstone linked with exit
Johnstone is among the Baggies’ most important players, given his status as a three-cap England international and possibly one of the best goalkeepers in the Championship.
The 28-year-old’s performances have been influential over an extended period of time, leading to reported interest from the likes of Southampton and West Ham.
Will Johnstone leave West Brom?
Yes
No
The Latest: Phillips makes big claim
Despite that strong interest, Phillips has told Football Insider that he thinks Johnstone will ignore the current interest in him and remain at The Hawthorns for the rest of the season.
The former Sunderland striker said:
“I like Sam, he’s a fantastic goalkeeper. I actually don’t think he will want to leave.
“He’ll want to stay there and get them promoted and be playing for them again in the Premier League.
“It will take a big offer for him to want to go down there to Southampton, where we know goalkeeper is a position they desperately need.
“I think he’s quite happy where he is. I know it’s Premier League football, but he could well be playing in that league next season with West Brom.
“He’s shown loyalty. He could have pushed for a move in the summer but didn’t, and I hope he stays put.”
The Verdict: Must stay until the summer
It would be a huge blow for West Brom if they were to lose Johnstone midway through the campaign in January, at a point when their promotion push would be reaching a crucial stage. The 28-year-old has missed just two league games since joining the Baggies in 2018, illustrating his importance to the team under multiple managers.
However, should Valerien Ismael’s side fail to return to the Premier League, it would then be understandable if the English ‘keeper wants a fresh challenge next summer.
Ideally, Johnstone will help inspire the Baggies back into the top flight, remaining at the club for another few years and helping them build into the future.
In other news, some West Brom fans have been left dazzled by one player. Find out who it is here.
