West Brom should not let Josh Griffiths depart the club this summer
Steve Bruce would be mad to let 20-year-old goalkeeper Josh Griffiths depart West Brom this summer after the shot-stopper was linked with another loan switch.
It had been reported by talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook [24 June] that the 20-year-old was “very close” to signing for League One side Portsmouth.
However, it has since been reported by The Express and Star [28 June] that Bruce remains undecided on the goalkeeper’s future.
Griffiths is currently training with the Baggies during preseason and Bruce would be wise to keep hold of the keeper this summer.
Despite only being 20, Griffiths has amassed a good level of experience, including a season on-loan in League One with Lincoln and a League Two title with Cheltenham.
A move to Pompey would not be a bad thing for Griffiths, with Danny Cowley a master operator at developing younger players. Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is the prime example of a player who succeeded whilst out on loan at Fratton Park.
However, surely the 20-year-old deserves a shot for the Baggies number one shirt.
Alex Palmer and David Button stand in the way of the young keeper after Sam Johnstone’s departure to Premier League side Crystal Palace.
Palmer was starved of game time in the 2021/22 campaign and Button is certainly reaching the twilight of his career.
Bruce must give the youngster a chance to impress in the West Brom goal.
If the Baggies boss doesn’t give Griffiths a shot, then he simply has to send the keeper out on loan to ensure he gains the experience needed to develop further.
In other West Brom news, the writing is on the wall for one midfielder as the Baggies look to seal another major new transfer this summer
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