West Bromwich Albion concluded one of their most disappointing campaigns in recent memory with a forgettable 2-1 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday. The final debrief of the season offers several talking points, including a defensive selection hint, the impact of a key midfielder's absence, and potential farewells for several senior players.
Gilchrist Given Nod at Centre-Back
Interim manager James Morrison raised eyebrows by selecting Alfie Gilchrist at centre-back for the final day clash at Hillsborough. Morrison explained that Gilchrist had performed well in his only previous start in that position, a 1-1 draw against Southampton, before losing his place to Nat Phillips. Phillips was rested on Saturday, and his dominant presence was sorely missed as Albion conceded twice from set-pieces.
Gilchrist, whose preferred role remains unclear between right-back and centre-back, did not have a great game, but he was no worse than many of his teammates. His selection ahead of Chris Mepham, who was conspicuously absent, raised further questions. Mepham has not been injured but has been overlooked in recent weeks. The Wales international only arrived last summer but could be on the move from The Hawthorns this transfer window.
Missing Cog: Molumby's Absence Felt
Phillips was a miss, but so too was Jayson Molumby, who sat out with a minor hamstring strain. Molumby watched from the press box alongside the club's first-team analysts. He has been a key figure in the revival under Morrison, thriving in an unfamiliar role on the right of a midfield four. Playing an inverted position, he tucks inside to assist and support right-back Danny Imray on the outside, a tactic that has been very successful.
The Irishman always brings a level of tenacity that is particularly noticeable when he is absent. Teenage prospect Ollie Bostock, a natural winger, started in his place but endured a tough schooling. He and his colleagues were all at sea, and the Wales youth international was withdrawn at half-time.
Farewells on the Horizon?
Several senior players featured in what could be their final appearances for the club, with contracts expiring. Max O'Leary, Jed Wallace, Karlan Grant, Josh Maja, and Daryl Dike all saw action. Goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith, whose terms also expire, is on loan at play-off side Middlesbrough but has yet to play a single minute.
O'Leary and Maja started, while Grant and Dike emerged as substitutes at half-time. O'Leary's proud record of five clean sheets was ended before half-time, as the Baggies shipped two poor quickfire goals having not conceded for more than 500 minutes. The former Bristol City shot-stopper has done enough to warrant consideration for a new deal. Maja was totally anonymous, and his impending exit feels the most cut-and-dried of the attacking quartet.
Karlan Grant converted a flicked finish on what could be his final Albion appearance after six years, his 35th goal in 173 games. There is a case for all four to be released, which could be the best move for all parties. Rebuilding an entire attacking unit would be a challenge, but Albion did so defensively last summer and could be better off financially by letting go of long-serving high earners.
Players will now head into breaks, and club chiefs will confirm decisions in the coming weeks.
