Graphic of West Brom manager James Morrison with The Hawthorns in the background

West Brom manager James MorrisonManh Tung, Breaking Media

West Brom win vs Shrewsbury proved there's still one glaring issue for James Morrison to fix

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Published on:

26 Jul 2026, 5:00 pm

West Brom enjoyed a very good pre-season run out at Shrewsbury Town on Saturday.

The Baggies continued preparations for the new Championship campaign with a 4-1 at New Meadow.

Jimmy-Jay Morgan had an excellent run out by scoring twice, with the forward looking to impress following his arrival from Chelsea.

Youngster Harry Whitwell opened the scoring, and the 20-year-old will be keen to stake his claim in the Baggies' midfield this term.

Aune Heggebo was always on the scoresheet to complete an afternoon of good work from Albion.

But James Morrison will know there's still one glaring issue that he is going to have to address before the end of the transfer window.

James Morrison will want to address one problem area at West Brom

West Brom News has previously looked at three areas West Brom will want to improve before the window is over.

One of those positions was right-back, and it is abundantly clear that the Baggies are still in need of reinforcement there.

Youngster Alex Williams, 21, was utilised there against Shrewsbury, and after making a couple of appearances last term will hope for more first-team action.

But he has just one Championship appearance to his name, so it is a lot to expect him to play a big chunk of Albion's fixtures in the coming campaign.

Alfie Gilchrist did not play against Shrewsbury, though BBC WM commentator Steve Hermon later reported he was ill and so wasn't risked.

#WBA boss James Morrison was pleased with the runout that his squad had in the two friendly matches they had today.

He also revealed that Alfie Gilchrist has been ill, which is why he didn’t play v Shrewsbury and there’s a fitness update on Tammer Bany. https://t.co/EEHOfiKkRI
— Steve Hermon (@SteveHermon) July 25, 2026

There have been tenative reports that Gilchrist could leave this summer, and many supporters feel he could be better used to at centre-back.

Essentially, Morrison knows full well that it is a position that needs immediate attention.

West Brom know how to get Danny Imray deal done as Crystal Palace open to sale

What's the latest with West Brom and Danny Imray?

The most popular solution for supporters would be the return of Danny Imray.

The 22-year-old impressed during his loan spell at The Hawthorns from Crystal Palace last season.

Reports have suggested that Imray is still on West Brom's radar.

Moreover, while a loan exit is the most likely prospect, Palace may still be open to a permanent sale for Imray.

The ideal scenario would be for any new signing, Imray or otherwise, to be in the door by the time West Brom have their Championship opener at Norwich City on 15 August.

Before that date would be even more ideal, of course. In fact, the sooner the better because it is a pressing concern.

Crystal Palace Football Club