Morgan Fox (Getty Images)
Back in May, a report from TEAMtalk (h/t Birmingham Live) had mentioned West Brom among the potential suitors for Morgan Fox, who was nearing the end of his contract with Sheffield Wednesday back then.
Burnley, Bournemouth, Norwich City, Middlesbrough, as well as Scottish giants Rangers, were understood to be interested in the 27-year-old. However, the left-back eventually ended up joining Championship rivals Stoke City on a free transfer during the summer window.
Morgan Fox started his youth career at Ipswich Town before moving to Charlton Athletic in 2010. He spent time on loan at Notts County in the third tier and made his senior debut for the Addicks during the 2013-14 season. The Chelmsford-born defender went on to establish himself as a key player for the club over the next three seasons, registering a total of 116 appearances in all competitions.
The left-back continued as a regular starter following his move to Sheffield Wednesday in January 2017. Fox made 103 appearances for the Owls over three-and-a-half seasons, amassing 4 goals and 6 assists in the process. The former Wales U-21 international joined Stoke City this past summer upon the expiry of his contract at Hillsborough.
Fox has established himself as a key player for Michael O’Neill’s side this season, starting 17 out of the Potters’ 20 league fixtures so far. The 27-year-old is yet to score but has contributed with 3 assists to guide his club to 7th place in the standings.
West Brom currently find themselves locked in a relegation dogfight in the Premier League following a dismal start to the campaign.
The Baggies are crying out for reinforcements at both ends of the pitch heading into the winter market. A tally of just 11 goals scored and 35 conceded in the process epitomises the need for significant improvement in the coming months if West Brom are to climb up the table.
As per the Daily Mail, Allardyce is expected to prioritise defensive signings next month to stem the leakage of goals. While a new centre-back is certainly needed, the Baggies should also look for new options in the full-back department, especially on the left. Neither Kieran Gibbs nor Connor Townsend has been able to muster any meaningful performances in the top-flight this season.
Hence, West Brom should consider another approach for Morgan Fox during the mid-season trading period. The Welshman has been in good form since joining Stoke City and the Baggies should fancy their chances of luring him with the promise of top-flight football.
With close to 200 career appearances in the Championship under his belt, Fox looks more than ready for a shot at the Premier League. The left-back has hit top gear this season and his rich vein of form could see him establish himself ahead of Townsend and Gibbs in the pecking order at the Hawthorns.
Morgan Fox doesn’t really tick the box as a high-profile signing for West Brom next month. But he’s someone who would offer good value for money, given his quality and experience in the Championship. With his best years still potentially ahead of him at 27, the Baggies shouldn’t hesitate to take a punt on the Welshman during the mid-season trading period.