[drewks]

We are in a relegation battle and rebuild.  This will not be pretty and if we get a big offer for Johnstone or anyone I am sure Big Sam will take it and invest it in the type of player that is proven and close to end of prime that is prepared to battle for survival (Bonus payment) and if not will also be prepared to fight for West Brom to get promoted again (Bonus payment) fully in the knowledge that it would be their swan song.

I have been here so many time - thinking the good times are nearly back again only to have it reset to a further two seasons time.

That said, new owners and attractive winning football in the Championship next season would get my vote immediately.

Jonathan Bond - off to LA Galaxy
Charlie Austin - Off to QPR (loan)
Filip Krovinovic - Off back to Benfica

Welcome Lonergan and Snodgrass

Next?

It's a real tricky one for Sam really; as you say Stairs, the only players that would want to come in, where we are, will be 32 or so on a short term contract, so hardly planning for any sort of future. But these ARE the sort of players that would give us half a chance - experienced, hopefully combatative, hopefully fit enough..... able to slot in and give us some resilience.
The more I think about it, if we get even just 1 more in of that ilk, this, coupled with Sam's down to earth coaching and man management COULD make a big difference.
Who knows?

It's the hope that kills, as they say!