Tony Mowbray has already explained why West Brom fans will love Tommy Watson as next move looms
Tony Mowbray has already said why West Bromwich Albion would be making a good signing in Tommy Watson.
The Baggies are linked with the Brighton youngster who is set for another loan move this upcoming season.
Watson came through Sunderland's ranks and was handed his debut for the Black Cats by former Albion boss Mowbray, who believed in the winger from the start.
Though it hasn't quite worked out for the England U20s star so far with Brighton, his time at the Stadium of Light has shown the quality he already has at such a young age.
Now, Watson looks set for another move, and his next transfer could be to West Brom.
What Tony Mowbray has said amid Tommy Watson to West Brom speculation
West Brom have been linked with a loan move for Watson, though several other EFL clubs are said to be interested,
It will be a hard task for the youngster to break into Fabian Hurzeler's side next season, though Brighton do see him as one for the future.
Watson was unable to get the game time he would have liked at The Den with Millwall, as Neil was always pretty set on his favoured lineup.
However, ex-West Brom boss Mowbray has outlined the forward's key traits that would make him the perfect fit at The Hawthorns.
After handing Watson his debut for Sunderland in April of 2023, Mowbray said, as quoted by The Northern Echo: "I just look at the assets of footballers, really.
"I don’t know loads and loads about him. I’ve seen him play in a few Under-23s games, and he’s trained with us a few times.
"I just think if you can face someone up one-on-one, and knock it on the outside of them, then he can run and get beyond people. Put the assets on the pitch – that’s how I manage."
Mowbray trusted a then 17-year-old Watson for Sunderland, and clearly viewed him as an "asset".
The traits he previously described are exactly what James Morrison misses at The Hawthorns: players who can be direct.
Even if Watson was to join West Brom as an option from the bench, he's something different to what the Baggies had last season, though they are set for one big boost.
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Though Albion's form picked up last season as they avoided relegation, the results were based on grit and determination, mainly.
Johnston will bring that direct attack and creativity that is needed.
The Irish international's versatility is also key, as he possesses the ability to play on the right, with Watson potentially playing on the opposite flank.
It would be a fresh change for Baggies fans, especially after having to endure the likes of Jed Wallace and Karlan Grant out wide last term.