Sam Allardyce And Rafa Benitez
It might be quite a sad thought for many, but there is a distinct possibility that these four remaining Premier League games could be the last that Sam Johnstone plays for West Bromwich Albion. There can be no denying that Albion’s first choice, aided and supported by David Button – a man who will have his own aspirations to land the number shirt next season – Andy Lonergan and coach Gary Walsh, who knew him so well from their time together at Aston Villa, has been for the most part excellent in his first full season in the top flight.
Sam Allardyce on Johnstone said: “We can only discuss that when we have secured our position as a Premier League club. That would mean discussion from the hierarchy at the club and look at what they can do with Sam’s contract and try to persuade him to stay. As usual, business is business. Whatever happens can only be decided then, but I think the club would do their very best to keep him.”
Johnstone, who has been at The Hawthorns for three seasons and has a further year left on that same contract he signed upon arrival, was of course a successor himself. Ben Foster’s were big boots to fill, and while there have been bumps in the road Johnstone has unquestionably improved in each season he’s been at the club.
