West Brom optimistic about star attacker's status come pre-season

Influential attacker Johnston, 27, missed out on the surge to Championship survival under James Morrison due to injury.

He suffered a broken ankle during Morrison’s first game as caretaker boss at the end of February, a dismal defeat at Oxford United.

Without Johnston, who had been Albion’s leading source of assists, the Baggies embarked on a run of 10 matches unbeaten and managed to salvage their status.

“He had his first running session a couple of weeks ago and is progressing well after an injury,” head coach Morrison told the Express & Star.

“It’s always nice, that first feeling when you can put your boots on and see your progression.

“Those first few weeks where you can’t really do much and you’re stuck in the gym are hard.

“When you get outside and everyone can see you it is a big boost.”

Morrison added: “He’ll have a pre-season, he will be ready.”

The winger is expected to return to training in late June with colleagues.

Johnston’s serious injury which viewed by many as another significant blow for Albion when it came to the battle at the foot of the Championship.

Up to Christmas and into the new year, Johnston’s haul of nine assists was among the most in the second tier. Only five players went on to surpass that tally.

Morrison’s move to replace Johnston by switching Isaac Price to the left flank proved a masterstroke as the latter’s performance level spiked.

Price played a crucial role in the safety push.

Johnston, meanwhile, has two years left to run on the contract he penned when he switched to The Hawthorns on a permanent basis for £3million in 2024.

The Republic of Ireland international was poised to join Brazilian giants Flamengo last summer, but a £5m move broke down at the 11th hour after the Rio de Janeiro club pulled the plug.