West Brom should sanction this transfer call to get back on track: Opinion

One win in their last six games has sent West Bromwich Albion fans into overdrive, with many baying for the departure of Valérien Ismaël as a result of this. 

However despite the recent setbacks, the under pressure head coach still has his side firmly sat in fifth place as they aim to work towards promotion this season.

It is a puzzling situation for many, especially when you consider the level of genuine quality that the Baggies possess within their ranks at the time of writing.

The likes of Karlan Grant, Grady Diangana, Alex Mowatt and Sam Johnstone could all easily play in the Premier League in a different universe but for one reason or another they and their teammates are misfiring at present, with the lack of goals becoming a real issue.

Indeed failing to register a shot on target during the 2-0 home defeat to Preston North End last night only increased the calls for there to be a change in the dugout, with even Slaven Bilic’s name being sung by sections of the Hawthorns crowd.

It makes for a really toxic environment at present and it is certainly one that needs to be improved soon if the Baggies are to stay in the race for the automatic spots.

However it would be perhaps a tad unfair on the West Brom boss himself if he were to take responsibility for all the blame, with a dig deeper into the background behind this recent slump in form revealing one underlying issue in particular.

Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has made no secret of his desire to move back to the Premier League and as a result his public comments have caused a rift with Ismaël that only adds to the club’s problems.

Having someone on board that clearly doesn’t want to be there is having a damaging effect on what is an experienced side and it is for that