West Brom loan keeper Josh Griffiths ‘really happy’ at Lincoln City
West Brom goalkeeper Josh Griffiths is “really happy” and “growing every game with confidence” as he settles in on loan at Lincoln City in the EFL League One.
Speaking to his club, as quoted on LincolnshireLive, the 20-year-old was proud of his progress whilst on loan with The Imps under manager Michael Appleton.
Griffiths, who was previously loaned to Cheltenham Town, has made his name as Lincoln’s first choice, but things haven’t been easy for the youngster with the club failing to win since 26 October and teetering on the edge of the relegation zone.
In his interview, Griffiths said: “For me at the start I was tough on myself but since those first three or four games where we were getting punished for little mistakes, I’ve been really happy. I feel like I’m growing every game with confidence and the way I’m playing.
“It’s been a good start, we’re really keen to have a good January, it’s obviously a busy period but we need to start kicking on now and picking up some points.”
The Hereford-born stopper continued: “It’s such a harsh environment, no one cares if you make a mistake or feels sorry for you so you have to put it to the back of your mind and crack on.”
Set to return?
Reports in November suggested that Griffiths could return to the Hawthorns early with Sam Johnstone tipped for a Premier League move this January.
However, it is up for debate whether the youngster is ready for Championship football. Griffiths has only managed one clean sheet in 22 matches this season – the worst record in the division.
With David Button and Alex Palmer available to manager Valérien Ismaël, it could be wise to allow Griffiths to continue growing under Michael Appleton at Lincoln.
The loan market may also be an option for Ismaël should Johnstone be tempted by a top-flight switch this winter. West Ham and Rangers are said to be keen on the former Manchester United keeper. Tottenham are said to have joined the race, according to TEAMtalk.
Allowing Griffiths to continue his progression under an established manager in League One is probably the best option for the club currently. Loaning in a Premier League back-up may be a sensible option for Ismaël too should the club lose Johnstone over the next month.
In other West Brom news, a reliable journalist updates fans on the transfer of a new striker.