Chris Brunt announces West Brom exit straight after 3-1 win v Preston
Chris Brunt has confirmed West Brom loanee Lewis Dobbin will be sent back to parent club Aston Villa.
BBC Radio WM commentator Steve Hermon reported via X (1 January) that the interim Baggies boss revealed the news immediately after the 3-1 win against Preston North End.
Albion were believed to be exploring the opportunity of ending the forward’s loan spell at The Hawthorns [DOOD] ahead of the January transfer window and have wasted no time in exacting the move.
West Brom send Lewis Dobbin back to Aston Villa
Despite former West Brom boss Carlos Corberan lauding Dobbin for his “growing development”, it is beneficial for all parties to terminate the loan.
The 21-year-old has seen his game time limited at Albion and has suffered the wrath of the supporters with his underwhelming displays when called upon.
On paper, the deal appeared to be a shrewd move for the Baggies, but unfortunately, it has not panned out as planned, and now Shilen Patel can direct his attention to incomings with more wiggle room in the wage bill.
While the search for Corberan’s replacement continues, Brunt has restored Albion’s position inside the playoff spots with the win against Preston at The Hawthorns to move up to fifth-place.
The Black Country outfit is in an unbelievable position to recruit a worthwhile successor, and thanks to the efforts of Josh Maja and co this year, they no longer need to rely on loan signings to bolster the squad.
With Tom Fellows and Mikey Johnston excelling on the flanks for West Brom, it is unlikely Dobbin would have enjoyed better fortunes in the second half of the season – he can now return to Aston Villa and secure another move with the promise of more playing time.
In other West Brom news, an Ex-Wolves midfielder was wowed by ‘super’ Albion ace Johnston against Preston.
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