EFL Analysis has exclusive information on the future of Adam Armstrong, with the forward on loan to West Bromwich Albion from Southampton.
West Brom have shown signs of improvement since Tony Mowbray took over at The Hawthorns, which is hardly surprising given the pedigree the manager brings with him to any Championship role.
The Championship table can change very quickly and Mowbray has outlined the key things he needs his players to do in order to fight for promotion until the end of the season. They have shown inconsistent signs so far ahead of the run-in for the play-offs.
However, they are just one of a number of play-off contenders eyeing a place in the semi-finals with an exciting trip to Wembley in mind. West Brom have a dismal play-off record, but one man scored the winner in the final against Leeds United last season — and he is now in Mowbray’s ranks once again.
Photo by Malcolm Couzens/Getty Images
Photo by Malcolm Couzens/Getty Images
Adam Armstrong exclusive transfer information revealed for West Brom to seal permanent Southampton switch
West Brom will hope for a Shilen Patel cash injection this summer amid financial worries, irrespective of whether they gain promotion or not. They will also look to retain Tom Fellows amid an EFL Analysis exclusive regarding his future.
Fellows is clearly their most valuable asset, staking a claim as one of the best players in the Championship. However, another is also on their books in Southampton’s play-off final hero — Adam Armstrong.
EFL Analysis expert Graeme Bailey has offered the latest exclusive information on the situation regarding Armstrong’s longer-term future at The Hawthorns after he was one of four January signings the club made alongside Tammer Bany, Isaac Price, and Tottenham Hotspur loanee Will Lankshear.
We asked Bailey whether West Brom be looking to sign Armstrong permanently in the summer, and if Southampton will let them, given how relegation appears likely amid financial concerns.
Bailey said: “Well, a lot will be determined by the player and his performances.
“Two goals have arrived and I am told West Brom like him beyond just a loan.
“Armstrong does expect to leave, but again — let’s see who arrives at Southampton.
“The new manager could think that Armstrong is their best striker and bring him back, and I would not rule that out.”
Photo by Adam Fradgley/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images
Photo by Adam Fradgley/West Bromwich Albion FC via Getty Images
Adam Armstrong could be a differential in the play-off race — his record under Tony Mowbray is outstanding
West Brom have gone from being a very defensive, well-organised unit under former manager Carlos Corberan, to becoming a more expansive, exciting proposition under Mowbray. That’s just one of the many differences between Corberan and Mowbray, with plenty of change on and off the pitch.
His know-how is vital, but as was his relationship in securing the forward’s services to the end of the campaign and reuniting once more. Armstrong may have only scored or assisted two in eight games thus far, but he is a known goal-getter, having notched 37 (24G, 13A) in 52 games last season for the Saints.
Season Apps Goals Assists
2017/18 21 9 2
2018/19 48 9 5
2019/20 48 17 7
2020/21 43 29 5
Adam Armstrong’s Blackburn Rovers stats
Not only that, but his record under Mowbray at Blackburn was also prolific, too. That was particularly evident in the final couple of seasons as either a left-sided winger or a striker. It could be crucial, but it is not the only thing to consider at the end of the campaign for the Baggies.
West Brom and Jayson Molumby will hope their fans create a good atmosphere between now and May, especially with experts backing West Brom to make the top six. Games between teams in the mix will be most pivotal, including West Brom travelling to Coventry City.