Mikey Johnston Faces Extended Absence for West Brom

West Bromwich Albion have been dealt a significant blow with confirmation that midfielder Mikey Johnston faces an “extended period” on the sidelines after another setback with his ankle.

The 27-year-old has managed just one appearance this season – the Carabao Cup tie against Rotherham United – despite being initially cleared to return following the ankle fracture he suffered in a Championship match at Oxford in February.

“It’s a complex injury,” Albion’s director of medical Tony Strudwick told the club’s website, stressing that he cannot put a “specific timeline” on when Johnston will be back.

Johnston’s recovery had appeared to be on track. The fracture healed, allowing West Brom to ease him through pre-season on a reduced workload. He built minutes steadily: 45 against Notts County, another 45 against Coventry, 25 against Peterborough, then 30 minutes of competitive action in the cup against Rotherham.

Then the pain returned.

A subsequent scan revealed a further problem in the ankle. Albion sought opinions from two leading ankle specialists in the country, and Johnston is now following a non-surgical treatment plan drawn up on their advice.

The winger rejoined West Brom from Celtic in August 2024 after a successful four-month loan spell at The Hawthorns and has gone on to make 99 appearances for the club in all competitions.

That 100th outing will have to wait.