Why West Brom must hold on to attacking midfielder Filip Krovinovic
According to Birmingham Mail, the long-term future of Croatian midfielder Filip Krovinovic at West Brom remains uncertain at the moment.
Attacking midfielder Krovinovic spent the season on loan at the Hawthorns from parent club Benfica and has played a key role in helping them return to the Premier League.
An outcast at Benfica under former boss Bruno Lage, Krovinovic was soon shipped off to English side West Brom last summer. However, the 24-year-old underwent a career revival since arriving at the Hawthorns, establishing himself as one of the regulars within Slaven Bilic’s side.
Krovinovic, who is currently in his native Croatia, had impressed during his loan spell with the Baggies this season, becoming one of the first few names in the teamsheet.
The Croatian’s attacking abilities saw him earn three goals and four assists from 40 Championship games, prompting the club to secure a permanent deal for him when they return to the Premier League next season.
However, West Brom are yet to hold talks regarding the future of their on-loan star, meaning only time can tell what’s in store for the Krovinovic. West Brom, meanwhile, finished second behind champions Leeds United this season, as they earned promotion back into the top-flight.
Krovinovic a valuable asset for West Brom
The Baggies under manager Bilic has clicked well in all departments and Krovinovic has been crucial in helping the club to the top of the table. The midfielder’s creative abilities has seen the side score as many as 77 goals from their overall 46 league matches, thus proving his significance in the current West Brom line-up.
However, letting him go back to his parent club next season could hurt them when they return to the top division as they lack depth in that role. Apart from Krovinovic, the Baggies do not have any other attacking midfielders on their side.
Also, Krovinovic offers manager Bilic more variety in the midfield as he has done so this season at the Hawthorns. The Croatian is comfortable playing anywhere in the midfield and has at times been used in a more central role by Bilic, meaning he is a valuable asset for any side, let alone West Brom.
Hence, it would be wise of West Brom to secure his services permanently if they wish to stay at the top. At the very least, they should at least extend Krovinovic’s stay and secure another loan deal for the in-form midfielder.
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Verdict
West Brom’s lack of creative midfielders is a cause of worry and who better than Krovinovic to steer them next season, having already proven himself. Moreover, he is only 24 and has plenty of football left in him. He is also not someone new to English football, having excelled in his maiden season in the Championship.
