West Brom manager Bruce reveals why he released Romaine Sawyers
West Brom manager Steve Bruce has revealed why he decided against offering former midfielder and boyhood fan Romain Sawyers a new deal.
The midfielder, who grew up supporting the Baggies, is set to return to the Hawthorns on 17 August with his new club Cardiff City.
However, the Scottish manager has now revealed why he decided against triggering the one-year extension in the midfielder’s contract. [Birmingham Live]
Bruce said: “Of course there was a decision to make and he was the other one we let go to make way for others.
“I hadn’t seen him, but it was a decision you have to make.
“I have to live with it, stand by it, that’s my job. The kid’s a good player, though, I know that.”
Sawyers v West Brom
Sawyers came through the youth ranks at West Brom, and was loaned out to several teams including Walsall and Shrewsbury.
He left the club on a permanent deal in 2013 to join Walsall and then eventually joined Brentford where he impressed and earned a move back to West Brom in 2019.
The Birmingham-born midfielder amassed a total of 64 appearances for his boyhood club and after a loan spell at Stoke City in 2022, officially left the club again this summer signing a two-year deal at Cardiff City.
The 30-year-old has enjoyed a bright start to life in Wales as he has made three appearances and scored a winner on his debut against Norwich, and has helped the Bluebirds gain six points from their opening three games.
His performances in midfield have helped the Bluebirds move up to fifth in the Championship and he will be hoping to continue his good form against his former club.
Returning to his boyhood club will be an emotional moment for Sawyers but he is sure to get a good reception from the Albion faithful.
In other West Brom news, the club have made a move for Manchester City striker Liam Delap.