West Brom news round-up: Ex-star to line up v Baggies as Mason’s rival under threat
Ryan Mason’s appointment has brought plenty of optimism among West Brom fans with preparations for next season now underway.
The Baggies limped across the line in the Championship in what was a frustrating end to a season that had seen them flirt with the play-off positions throughout.
With Mason at the helm, there is now a renewed hope that the West Midlands outfit can improve next term, and push for a return to the top flight for the first time since the 2020/21 campaign.
Here, West Brom News rounds up all the latest updates from The Hawthorns as another week of summer preparation draws to a close.
Brentford have held talks with Keith Andrews
Brentford have reportedly held talks with former Baggies midfielder Keith Andrews over their vacant managerial position.
The West London outift have spoken to several candidates so far, with Andrews, who is currently the set piece coach at the Gtech Community Stadium, though to be among them.
The 44-year-old has previously occupied an assistant manager role at both MK Dons and the Republic of Ireland, and made 14 appearances for West Brom back in his playing days, and scored in a famous 5-1 win over Wolves.
Current Valencia and ex-West Brom boss Carlos Corberan is also believed to be in the frame to take the reins at Brentford, as well as Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna.
West Brom rivals face managerial uncertainty
Sheffield United could be in line to part company with their boss Chris Wilder, according to The Independent’s Miguel Delaney.
The Blades board are understood to have disagreements with Wilder over recruitment and other issues, after he failed to lead them to a Premier League return this season.
Wilder knows Bramall Lane and the club like the back of his hand, and it would be a huge surprise if he was relieved of his duties.
Preparations for next season have only just begun, but it looks as though one of West Brom’s likely rivals could be set to face their own managerial hunt, which would provide a major setback as they ready another promotion push next term.
John Swift could join Portsmouth
John Swift could be set to line up against West Brom next season, after his recent release from the Hawthorns.
Portsmouth are reportedly one of four Championship teams chasing the 29-year-old, who also has interest from Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the MLS, according to The News (12 June).
The midfielder came through the academy ranks at Fratton Park, and the prospect of a return to the South Coast is understood to be a significantly appealing one for Swift.
Swift drew criticism from some supporters for his performances last season, but the Baggies could now be made to rue their decision if he returns to The Hawthorns in a Pompey shirt next term.