West Brom handed Mikey Johnston reprieve as new footage shared

West Bromwich Albion have been without Mikey Johnston since he suffered a season-ending injury last term.

And his absence was certainly notable, given the lack of attacking threat that coincided with his injury.

However, initial fears that he could miss part of the next campaign have since been wiped away, or at least so it seems.

The Republic of Ireland winger was spotted in Albion gear ahead of their return to pre-season via footage shared on social media.

Furthermore, there had also been fears that he could leave The Hawthorns this summer, though, again, his appearance in the footage suggests otherwise.

And for West Brom and James Morrison, it may be the biggest boost they could have hoped for.

Why Mikey Johnston fitness may determine West Brom success

If Johnston's injury had come any sooner last season, West Brom would have been relegated.

It was his creativity that earned the Baggies some vital points in the first half of the season, which, in turn, played a vital role in them staying in the Championship.

Despite missing 12 league encounters, the winger finished the campaign with nine assists and 56 chances created.

For context, the latter saw him rank among the top 8.9 per cent of wingers in the Championship, and on a per 90 basis, in the top 6.4 per cent.

If Albion can maintain his fitness heading into next season, then their chances of avoiding another relegation battle will be increased signficantly.

Johnston return cannot distract Albion from transfer priority

Johnston will almost certainly be the creative force for West Brom again next season, but he cannot be the only one.

The Baggies need to sign more quality in the wide areas if they are to find a way to play withyout relying on his skill in the final third.

Having already signed two new strikers, that will be the final piece of the jigsaw for Morrison's attack, and undoubtedly something that they are working on behind the scenes.

In all honesty, whether they achieve that or not could make or break their season.