West Brom need to persist with Alex Mowatt despite disappointing first season
West Brom signed midfielder Alex Mowatt exactly one year ago today and they should stick by him, despite his underwhelming debut season.
Mowatt followed Valerien Ismael to the Albion from Barnsley, arriving on a free transfer after a stellar spell with The Tykes.
Unfortunately, he failed to find that same form during his 34 league appearances for Albion last season.
He had his moments, including his stellar half-volley against Cardiff in September, but mostly disappointed Baggies fans.
However, his previous seasons show that there is a fine player in there that could save Albion millions if they can unlock it.
Why Albion should persist with Mowatt
Mowatt’s final season at Barnsley was outstanding, seeing the midfielder grab eight goals and seven assists in 44 league appearances.
He finished as Barnsley’s third-highest scorer, behind Cauley Woodrow and now-Albion teammate Daryl Dike.
The 27-year-old could not carry those numbers into last season, only putting up four goals and two assists as West Brom laboured to 10th.
His stats in almost every area were down, taking fewer shots per 90 minutes with less going on target with a lower Points Per Match ratio (FBRef).
However, Albion is a different place after some stellar early business from Steve Bruce.
The arrivals of Jed Wallace and John Swift have injected a bit of optimism back into the Hawthorns, with a promotion push looking possible for next season.
Mowatt has always been a creative player, getting 24 assists during his final three years at Barnsley which could be a boon to Bruce’s side.
His time in Yorkshire showed how he can excel in a positive environment and how he can form the backbone of a promotion challenge.
If Bruce can unlock Mowatt next season, he could form a deadly midfield partnership with Swift to drive Albion back up the league.
In other West Brom news, Ron Gourlay and Steve Bruce are scouring the market for a new full-back this summer.