‘Undoubted technical ability but no consistency’ - assessing West Brom’s out-of-contract stars

West Bromwich Albion normally find themselves a bargain or two when it comes to shopping for out-of-contract players at the beginning of a summer window. In July of 2022, they swooped in and picked up two Championship creative forces of John Swift and Jed Wallace, along with defensive midfield stalwart Okay Yokuslu.

But the Baggies could also be subject for other teams to sniff out their next bargain signing, with four current senior players set to walk out of the door for free if they aren’t tied down on new deals. However, with Albion yet to know what division they’re in, it could make decisions more tricky for head coach Carlos Corberan as he looks to assemble his squad for his first full campaign in charge.

Here’s what we - at BirminghamWorld - think West Brom should do with their out-of-contract stars.

Jake Livermore

Albion’s club captain has given six years of service at The Hawthorns, skippering them to a Championship promotion in 2019/20 and enjoying plenty of appearances at the heart of their midfield. However, he’s lacked presence in the first-team squad during this campaign and particularly under Corberan.

The former Hull City and Tottenham Hotspur man has only managed two league appearances under the Spaniard so far but has reportedly played a big role in the dressing room and behind the scenes. Livermore could be a good figure to keep around the place, however, his impression on the pitch has dwindled and many Albion fans believe his time is up.

Perhaps the midfielder may consider a coaching role at the club. But at the age of 33, it seems he may have more to give - even if it is at another team.

Our verdict - Release

Tom Rogic

The ex-Celtic man signed for the Baggies just as the season got underway, with ex-manager and the man that brought him in Steve Bruce describing him as ‘a very, very good footballer.’ But things haven’t been plain sailing for the Australian international who struggled with a hamstring injury in early 2023.

Having lost his place to John Swift due to the playmaker’s purple patch, particularly from set pieces, Rogic hasn’t managed to nail down a starting spot. He has managed some form, though, scoring two speculative efforts in victories over Sunderland and Chesterfield.

The Australian has shown plenty of technical ability but lacked consistency, however, the Baggies do boast a one-year extension trigger clause on his contract. It might well be of some use to keep him around.

Our verdict - Trigger extension

Kean Bryan

He’s struggled enormously with injuries since joining the Baggies on a free transfer in September of 2021. He signed after being released from Sheffield United and suffered a ruptured ACL after just 49 minutes of action.

It’s been an unfortunate spell at Albion for Bryan and probably not one that ends in a new deal after this one expires. However, the focus for him has to be on revitalising his career and getting regular minutes back into his legs.

Our verdict - Release

Erik Pieters

After struggling to break into the first team initially, the 34-year-old has become a staple part of Corberan’s back line. Pieters has excelled at the heart of a typically solid defence under the Spaniard.

He came into the team initially after the World Cup break to cover Kyle Bartley’s injury but has since found himself with a regular run in the team, particularly impressing alongside Dara O’Shea. Age isn’t on the Dutchman’s side, however, he could still provide a more than useful influence in the squad - even if they are to achieve promotion.

Our verdict - Keep