Why Chris Mepham's 'frustrating' admission exposes real West Brom challenge

Chris Mepham is a perfect reflection of what James Morrison has to work with at West Bromwich Albion.

The Wales international joined the Baggies last summer for around £1million, but found himself on the sidelines towards the crucial end of the season.

In February, the 28-year-old picked up an injury, and he didn't feature for the Albion again as they managed to avoid relegation from the Championship by four points.

Mepham is adamant about coming back strong next season as West Brom ramp up their pre-season preparations in Portugal.

The former Bournemouth defender wants to prove himself to the Black Country outfit's supporters after an injury-hit campaign.

With the West Midlands club clearly needing to keep a check on their finances after being deducted points for breaching Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) in April, the transfer reality at The Hawthorns is evident.

Why James Morrison has to have different approach at West Brom

While any new manager at a club hoping to achieve promotion would have hoped to be backed heavily after finishing one spot above the relegation zone, that may not be the case at West Brom

So far, the Baggies have spent around £2.5million to sign Barney Stewart, Jimmy-Jay Morgan and Matt Ingram for the senior squad.

With Daryl Dike and Jed Wallace leaving, and Josh Maja and Karlan Grant looking unlikely to extend their contracts at The Hawthorns, the Albion needed to spend money to reinforce their attack.

Stewart and Morgan's arrival may indicate a switch in recruitment policy in B71, with more younger, low-cost options with potential being pursued.

Instead of Morrison banking on Bilkul Football backing him in the transfer window, the 40-year-old is tasked with bringing out the best in players like Mepham, who have failed to live up to expectations so far.

Three players who need to step up for James Morrison at West Brom

Mepham clearly needs to step up and place his best foot forward if West Brom have any chance of competing for a play-offs spot next season.

Speaking on the club's official website on 15 July, the centre-back said, "The fans definitely haven’t seen the best of me. When you step away and reflect, there’s been no hiding that I had a frustrating season.

"I know what I need to improve on, and I’m only 28, so there will always be stuff to improve on, so I’m really keen to show Albion fans the best version of me."

West Brom News have consistently covered Tammer Bany's difficult situation at the club due to injuries, and he's still working his way back to full fitness.

The Jordan international could be a crucial asset for Morrison in the upcoming campaign after the departures of several forwards this summer.

Alfie Gilchrist also needs to finally show why the Albion agreed a £2m package deal to sign him from Chelsea last summer.

With Danny Imray returning to Crystal Palace from his productive loan spell in B71, the former Sheffield United ace needs to step up.