Birmingham City’s lengthy 13-year tenure in the Championship came to a sorrowful end despite their 1-0 victory against Norwich City last Saturday, as outcomes in other matches sealed their relegation. Nonetheless, their descent to the third tier of English football might pave the way for a potential loan arrangement with West Brom for promising goalkeeper Josh Griffiths. This potential move evokes memories of their shrewd acquisition back in 2011 when they secured the services of Boaz Myhill from West Brom on a one-year loan after their relegation from the Premier League.
Boaz Myhill: A Stroke of Signing Genius
After establishing himself as a key figure in Hull City during the late 2000s, Myhill completed a reported £1.5 million transfer to West Brom on July 30, 2010.
Regrettably, his debut season at West Brom saw limited action, with just 13 appearances, prompting a move to St Andrew’s in the summer.
At Birmingham, Myhill played a pivotal role, aiding them to an impressive fourth-place finish in their return to the Championship. He also had a unique opportunity to participate in European competition, facing teams like Braga and Club Brugge.
Despite their efforts, Birmingham was eliminated from both the Europa League and the play-offs, with Myhill sidelined due to injury during the Championship semi-final against Blackpool.
Upon his return to West Brom, he primarily served as a backup goalkeeper throughout his career. Nevertheless, Birmingham supporters will always remember Myhill’s contributions, which helped secure their highest finish in the past 12 years.
Birmingham Should Aim to Recreate the Deal
Another player likely to find himself in a supporting role next season is 22-year-old Josh Griffiths. Having been with West Brom since the age of 10, Griffiths faces tough competition for playing time, with Alex Palmer’s form keeping him as the understudy.
This situation presents an ideal opportunity for Birmingham, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see them pursue the English goalkeeper, especially given their current status as promotion favorites.
Griffiths’ experience in League One is another key factor, having made over 50 appearances in the division for Portsmouth and Lincoln. His stint at Portsmouth was particularly notable, recording seven clean sheets in 22 games and demonstrating adeptness in distributing the ball from the back.
With current goalkeeper John Ruddy’s contract set to expire next month, some fans may be calling for a replacement. As a short-term solution, Griffiths could be relied upon to deliver consistent performances next season.
Carlos Corberan Might Have Different Plans
Carlos Corberan, the current head coach of West Bromwich Albion, might have alternative plans for Josh Griffiths. Despite recalling Griffiths from his loan at Fratton Park last season, Corberan granted him opportunities towards the end of the campaign, with the goalkeeper featuring in 10 Championship matches.
Although Griffiths has seen limited playing time this season, Corberan evidently has future plans for him. In a recent interview with Birmingham Live, the head coach emphasized a nuanced approach to player development, stating, “We think in football you only develop with game time, but in your career, that’s not the only way you have to develop.”
Corberan’s philosophy diverges from that of many other managers, and West Brom’s league status could influence his decisions next season. If the Baggies secure promotion via the play-offs, Griffiths might be loaned out to Birmingham to further his development. However, if West Brom remains in the Championship, Griffiths could find himself in a familiar battle with Alex Palmer for the goalkeeper position.
