Jayson Molumby can be James Morrison's West Brom midfield general after Ireland heartbreak
Jayson Molumby could be James Morrison's midfield general at West Bromwich Albion despite Ireland's heartbreaking World Cup exit.
Heimir Hallgrimsson's side were knocked out in their playoff semi-final against Czech Republic at the Fortuna Arena on 26 March.
However, the disappointment of the penalty shootout defeat could be a benefit for The Hawthorns outfit, when the 26-year-old returns from international duty.
West Brom's Molumby was one of his country's better players, staying on the pitch for 115 minutes before being replaced.
How did Molumby perform in Ireland defeat?
Molumby helped his case for a pivotal role in West Brom's survival battle with his showing in the crucial clash.
He completed 77 per cent of his passes in the contest, with a 93 per cent accuracy within his own half, per Sofascore.
The Irish star attempted two shots, with one hitting the woodwork and made one key pass for his teammates.
| Molumby's stats in Ireland's defeat to Czech Republic | |
| Pass accuracy | 77% |
| Pass accuracy in own half | 93% |
| Shots (woodwork hit) | 2(1) |
| Touches | 66 |
| Recoveries | 8 |
| Ground duels won | 4/5 |
| Aerial duels won | 3/5 |
He took a total of 66 touches, losing possession 13 times, and made 10 carries for a total distance of 79.3m.
Defensively was where he truly stood out, winning the only tackle that he attempted, two interceptions, one clearance, one blocked shot and eight recoveries.
He won four of the five ground duels that he contested, with another three out of the five that he tried in the air.
It was a brilliant all-around showing from the Albion man, and hopefully, he can bring that form back to club football.
Why West Brom could benefit
The stats that Molumby recorded in Ireland's shootout defeat suggest that he can become a colossus in the middle of the park for Morrison.
He can thrive in attack and defence in the final few weeks of the campaign if utilised in a similar role for the Baggies, and help them avoid the drop down to League One.
If the former Millwall man can recreate the role that he played with his nation with the Black Country side, it would help massively in the fight against relegation.
The energetic workman's performance from Molumby was a sign of what could be coming for Albion, and it could bring him a new role in Morrison's side as the campaign grinds to a conclusion.