Sam Johnstone axed by Steve Bruce as Man Utd and Tottenham battle for transfer

England goalkeeper Sam Johnstone looks to have played his final game for West Bromwich Albion.

The stopper has made 36 appearances for the Baggies this season but his contract expires in the summer. The 29-year-old, who has three senior caps, has so far refused to agree to extended terms and that has led to Albion boss Steve Bruce admitting defeat. Bruce, who arrived at the Hawthorns in February, says Johnstone will be stood down for the club's five remaining fixtures this season.

West Brom are 12th in the table ahead of their Good Friday meeting at home to Blackpool. Bruce confirmed the experienced David Button will stand in for the remainder of the season, with Alex Palmer and Josh Griffiths to provide competition and cover.

Bruce said: "I've had a word with Sam. Sam looks as if he's decided to let his contract run down and that is his prerogative. We haven't been able to get him a deal, so I'll have a look at Button and see how he does.

"With five games left, it's only right that David plays. We've chopped and changed a little bit. That is pretty normal. What will make the headlines will be the goalkeeping situation. Sam's been a great servant to this club but we have to accept that he's decided not to sign his contract and we wish him the best of luck.

"So it's important we give Dave the gloves and see how he does. He has bags of experience. He has been round the block and played 339 games in his career."

Earlier this week Johnstone was linked with a move back to his old club Manchester United. But they are likely to face stern competition from Premier League top-four rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Reports from Sky Sports suggest that United are interested in re-signing the stopper, who spent seven years at United but