Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sat 23 May 2026 19:10, UK

Mikey Johnston has been a key player for West Bromwich Albion, but injury meant that manager James Morrison has never got to utilise him.

The Irish international ended the Championship campaign in the top five for assists, and if it wasn’t for that setback, he likely would have ended up on top.

Beyond those statistics, Johnston’s directness, speed and ability to create chances are a rare trio of qualities in the world of football.

There are few players that West Brom could obtain to replace those traits, and it makes keeping him all the more important.

Now, ahead of West Brom’s transfer window, there could be one important way to achieve that goal.

How West Brom could keep Mikey Johnston onside

Johnston’s future at West Brom is up in the air as previous interest in him over the last year has every chance to resurface.

Additionally, after going through a tumultuous campaign, he could be tempted by the thought of moving on to greener pastures.

However, if the Baggies can get their transfer business done early and bring in some ambitious signings, that could quell any early thoughts of an exit for Johnston.

The winger is one of the best players in the Championship, as seen by his creativity in earning nine assists over the last season.

Keeping him onside could prove vital to any ambition to push for promotion, and showcasing it as soon as possible could be the way.

Why Mikey Johnston should be focal point of James Morrison’s attack

Johnston is a player that gets fans off their feet with his dribbling and confidence to take players on, and that is clear in his performances for Ireland and West Brom.

It is a trait that cannot be defined by statistics but one that can have an immense impact on a team.

If fans are excited, they are likely to get up off their seats and be loud. It makes the atmosphere in stadiums better and in turn spurs the team on to go and win games.

It is a circle of influence, and Johnston is a player that can dramatically provide that. If he can keep up his performances from the season just gone and add more goals, he could be one of the best in the second-tier next campaign.