West Bromwich Albion youngster Josh Griffiths could have a big future with the Baggies after impressing on loan in League Two, Cheltenham Town boss Michael Duff has told the Birmingham Mail.
Sam Johnstone isn’t the only West Brom shot-stopper keeping busy during the international break.
While the Premier League’s busiest keeper has been rewarded for his heroic displays with a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, teenager Griffiths is looking to make a name for himself with the U21s.
The Young Lions have endured a torrid time at the U21 European Championships, losing both their group-stage matches without mustering a single shot on target from open play.
But the opportunity to test his reflexes against the likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Ebere Eze can only aid Griffiths’ development.
The talented 19-year-old was handed a maiden call-up by Aidy Boothroyd after a fine run of form between the sticks at Cheltenham.
And Duff, whose Robins side sit second in League Two, is backing Griffiths to make his mark back home at the Hawthorns when his time at Whaddon Road comes to an end.
“We’ve given (Griffiths) an opportunity and he’s taken it,” says Duff, the former Burnley defender.
“As a first-year pro, to play in such a pivotal position and to get those sorts of numbers is a credit to him. If we wasn’t (performing), we wouldn’t pick him.
“We’d like to think one day he could go and play in the Premier League for West Brom.”
Griffiths has produced a hugely impressive 17 clean sheets in 32 league games at Cheltenham. And with Johnstone attracting interest from elsewhere, could the 19-year-old be pushing for a first-team berth at West Brom sooner rather than later?
“At his age, he wants to be progressing. We’ve got potentially a very good goalie on our hands,” says Boaz Myhill, West Brom’s goalkeeping development coach.
“Hopefully Cheltenham carry on the way they’re going and get promoted. That’d be awesome for him and the club. I’d be delighted for all parties.”
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