Thomas-Asante mocks exit-bound West Brom star as message sent
West Brom have plenty of work to do this summer, after falling away miserably in the Championship this season.
Shilen Patel must start by appointing a new boss after the failures of Tony Mowbray at The Hawthorns.
With sights firmly set on achieving a top-six finish next term, the right additions must be made to add the necessary strength to go all the way.
The departures of three players from The Hawthorns have already been announced, with Semi Ajayi, Grady Diangana, and John Swift all being released upon the expiry of their contracts.
Brandon Thomas-Asante sends message to Ajayi
Although he was previously a regular in the Albion line-up, Ajayi has struggled at West Brom of late, with injuries hindering his game time.
This season, the centre-back made just 15 Championship appearances, and his departure wasn’t too surprising.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 15 | 0 | 0 |
However, Ajayi already has his eyes set on a new move with both Hull City and Reading credited with interest in his services this summer.
Before then, though, the 31-year-old is focusing on international duty, having been called up for Nigeria once again.
In a friendly against Ghana on Wednesday (28 May), it was Nigeria who came on top with a 2-1 victory, with an own goal making the difference in their favour.
After the game, Ajayi took to Instagram (29 May) to celebrate the victory, posting: “Jollof derby served hot. 2-1, Derby won, Ghana done. Final loading. See you on Saturday.”
It was former teammate Brandon Thomas-Asante who scored Ghana’s only goal of the game and despite being on the losing side, he took a dig at Ajayi, replying: “You people know how to waffle man.”
West Brom have to appoint a new manager
As West Brom look ahead to next season with the hope of more success, it was the right time to part ways with Ajayi, despite his previous efforts.
With the transfer window opening on Sunday (1 June), though, Patel needs to get into gear and appoint a new manager in preparation for the work that is to be done.
Ryan Mason has been heavily linked with the managerial vacancy, although it has been reported that he is going to keep the Baggies waiting until the start of next week for an answer.
If that is the case, the chief should know exactly who he will be ready to turn to if this appointment doesn’t end up being the one.