Sam Johnstone will soon leave West Bromwich Albion when his contract expires, leaving David Button to challenge Alex Palmer for the proverbial No.1 jersey next season. The two goalkeepers were handed new deals this summer, so the club are clearly showing faith in their ability.

Button briefly replaced Johnstone between the sticks during the tail-end of the 2021/22 campaign, so he’s expected to be West Brom’s first-choice shot-stopper, but a report from Alan Nixon of The Sun suggests neither goalkeeper will get the nod.

Steve Bruce is reportedly interested in Newcastle United’s Karl Darlow. The 31-year-old has struggled for playing time at St James’ Park and could be moved on this summer as a result – Darlow has made eight Premier League appearances this season, but it remains to be seen whether he’d drop down a division.

Nixon believes West Brom want to capitalise on the situation, but a move for Darlow would spell disaster for Button and Palmer. Why would the Baggies tie down their two senior goalkeepers if they were going to sign a replacement?

Button has shown himself to be an able replacement for Johnstone, so he deserves a chance next season.

In other news, Steve Bruce likely to ignore Callum Morton next season