“He simply has to be” – West Brom secure signing of 26-year-old: Will he be a guaranteed starter? The verdict

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict‘ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

West Brom have announced the signing of John Swift from Reading.

The midfielder has had a strong season in a struggling Royals side having scored 11 goals and contributed 13 assists in 38 games this season.

The move to West Brom will give the 26-year-old an opportunity to showcase his talents higher up in the Championship after six years with Reading.

The Baggies are looking to compete for the play-offs next season so will be expected to make more signings to strengthen their side before the new season kicks off.

With that in mind, we asked three of the writers here at FLW if they think Swift will be a guaranteed starter in the West Brom side next season.

Billy Mulley

He simply has to be.

I am quite surprised that he has not earned a Premier League, so for him to remain in the Championship, he has to be an integral figure for the Baggies as they chase a return to the top flight.

A midfielder who reads the game quicker than most and possesses creative abilities that would justify him operating in the top tier, Swift could thrive at The Hawthorns, especially when placed alongside the craft of Alex Mowatt and relentlessness of Jayson Molumby.

This is a huge coup for Albion and Steve Bruce, who have started off the summer transfer window exceptionally well.

Every single Championship club would love to have a player of Swift’s quality in their side, with the Baggies the lucky outfit who will next season.

Ben Wignall

John Swift is a fantastic signing for West Brom and I believe he will be their lynchpin in the