The numbers that prove West Brom were right to seal Conor Townsend return

Conor Townsend's return to West Brom from Ipswich makes sense for everybody.

The 33-year-old secured a The Hawthorns comeback, just two years after he departed.

West Brom News shared reports that the Baggies were set to sign Townsend on a free transfer after his exit from Portman Road.

James Morrison's side needs experience and the veteran brings plenty to the side, and the move has now been confirmed.

The numbers make for encouraging reading for supporters ahead of his return to B71.

They suggest that he still has what it takes to help Albion achieve their ambitions in the upcoming campaign.

What do Conor Townsend's numbers say about West Brom return?

Since he did feature for a single minute last season, we have to look at Townsend's numbers for the 2024-25 campaign in the Premier League.

In terms of attacking, he averaged 0.27 assists per 90 minutes, which put him in the 94th percentile among right-backs, per Fotmob data.

He also created 1.07 chances per game, which could come in handy if he is required to fill-in.

Defensively, he averaged 9.40 defensive contributions, 2.96 tackles, 1.07 interceptions and 2.15 recoveries per game in the top-flight.

In terms of duels, he won 65.6 per cent on his ground duels and 60 per cent in the air.

That suggests that the second tier should be no issue for the left-back.

Why the Townsend move is perfect for both sides

For starters, he knows the club having spent six years with them before his move to the Tractor Boys.

Secondly, he brings vital experience to a squad that he become younger and younger in recent years.

Finally, he will be a back up behind Callum Styles, so his age should not be much of a problem for Morrison's side.

The numbers imply that he still has plenty to offer, if he can get over the injury issues that saw him make just 10 appearances under Kieran McKenna's leadership.

Whether he can overcome that problem remains to be seen, but it is a signing that adds something vital to the Albion squad, without breaking the bank.

It leaves space for further additions, while also giving them a new option behind the Hungarian.