Portsmouth hero Marlon Pack sends message as West Brom agree permanent signing
West Brom have finally kicked off their business this month after a slow start to the winter transfer window.
Eric Ramsay replaced Ryan Mason in the dugout at The Hawthorns on 11 January, paying a compensation fee to bring in the 34-year-old from Minnesota United.
Ramsay’s time in charge has got off to the worst possible start though, with West Brom beaten 3-2 by Middlesbrough before falling to an embarrassing 5-0 defeat at home to Norwich City.
The Baggies are now just three points clear of the Championship relegation zone, and in real danger of dropping down to League One, so they have decided to strengthen their squad.
West Brom sign Max O’Leary from Bristol City
West Brom confirmed the signing of Max O’Leary from Bristol City on Thursday evening, with the goalkeeper coming in on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The Republic of Ireland international has only played five Championship games so far this term.
Manchester United loanee Radek Vitek has been preferred between the sticks for the Robins, meaning O’Leary has completed his move to The Hawthorns with the hope of improved minutes.
The 29-year-old has a wealth of Championship experience and has made more than 150 appearances in the second tier.
O’Leary posted a message to Bristol City fans on Instagram after his departure was announced, thanking everyone involved for his 18 years at Ashton Gate.
Portsmouth midfielder Marlon Pack, who played with O’Leary at Bristol City earlier in his career, commented: “Incredible Maximus, go well my friend.”
What impact will Max O’Leary signing have?
O’Leary will provide some much-needed competition for Josh Griffiths and Joe Wildsmith, who have both been below par in recent months.
West Brom have already conceded 43 goals this season in the Championship, with only bottom club Sheffield Wednesday having a worse defensive record.
The lack of quality in the goalkeeping department has been a contributing factor to the problems at the back, and O’Leary will surely be given an immediate chance in the starting lineup.
He has been registered in time to feature for West Brom on Friday night, as they travel to Derby County, so will be available for Eric Ramsay to call upon.
It remains to be seen whether O’Leary is thrust straight in, but he must hit the ground running if the Baggies are going to move away from the relegation zone.
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