Josh Griffiths taking West Brom opportunity despite loan interest
West Brom goalkeeper Josh Griffiths has “done very well” according to Steve Bruce despite strong suggestions of a loan move away from The Hawthorns.
The 20-year-old looked to be on his way out of the club with talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook suggesting (24 June) he was “very close” to joining League One side Portsmouth.
However, Bruce has highlighted how well the keeper has done in pre-season with the Baggies as the West Brom boss assesses his options before the start of the 2021/22 campaign.
Bruce said [as quoted by the Express and Star on 7 July]: “Alex Palmer had a slight hip flexor problem, but I’ve wanted to see the young one (Griffiths).”
“He’s going to be some goalkeeper, the young lad, I have to tell you.
“I’m really, really pleased.
“His kicking, everything about him.
“He’s got a wonderful stature and he’s done very, very well.”
Needs to play
What is plain and simple to understand is that Griffiths simply has to play another 40+ games in the 2022/23 season.
He has spent the past two campaigns on loan at Cheltenham Town and Lincoln City and has developed immensely during his stints away from The Hawthorns.
He is still very much in a developmental stage and another loan move wouldn’t be a bad thing for the 20-year-old, particular if it was to Portsmouth under the stewardship of Danny Cowley.
The Pompey boss has shown his passion for developing and nurturing young players with now Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu the latest player to thrive under the Pompey boss.
Another year in League One with a side that should be challenging for at least the playoffs would be a good move for Griffiths.
However, if Bruce deems the youngster good enough to be his number one next season then he should be given the chance to impress with the Baggies.
Bruce certainly has plenty of options when it comes to the number one shirt.
In other West Brom news, we are one of five teams in the hunt to sign this Premier League youngster who scored a promotion-winning goal in League Two last season.
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