Darnell Furlong sends three-word message as West Brom exit announced
West Brom defender Darnell Furlong has issued a three-word message on social media as teammate Cedric Kipre departs The Hawthorns.
Kipre will undergo a medical at Stade Reims on Thursday [Fabrizio Romano, 24 July], bringing an end to a four-year spell in the West Midlands following the expiry of his contract.
The 27-year-old posted a heartfelt goodbye to all associated with Albion on his Instagram page on Wednesday, with Furlong among several teammates to offer a warm response.
“What a guy,” the full-back swiftly commented on Kipre’s post – joined by several other Baggies players who recognise the impact the Ivorian had on Carlos Corberan’s team, particularly last season.
“Good luck, my brother,” said Matt Phillips, who’s also left The Hawthorns this summer.
Alex Palmer and Conor Townsend both said: “All the best, bro.”
West Brom need more, says Furlong
West Brom have so far made three signings this summer but have lost a huge chunk of their squad, with Kipre the latest confirmed departure to set Corberan’s squad back.
Furlong himself has admitted the club must invest in strengthening the squad in the approaching weeks in order to maintain a promotion push [Express & Star, 24 July], insisting this week that “a few more signings” are required.
There has even been a fear at The Hawthorns that Furlong himself could depart, having been linked with an exit worth around £2m [Alan Nixon, 26 May] in the days succeeding the club’s failed play-off campaign.
The Baggies’ stable season culminating in a top-six place emanated from their defensive record, with both Furlong and Kipre huge parts of the operation.
Whilst the club have moved to secure new contracts for Kyle Bartley and Alex Mowatt, there is a stark need to bolster the squad to avoid the risk of falling behind ambitious Championship rivals.
In other West Brom news, the latest view on a potential return for Mikey Johnston.
For more West Brom news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.