Chris Brunt: Recruitment is key for West Brom
Fan favourite Chris Brunt believes Albion can take inspiration from Sheffield United as they prepare to return to the Premier League.
But the departing club captain has warned the Baggies will have to get their recruitment right if they are to become an established top-flight side.
Brunt waved goodbye to The Hawthorns on Wednesday after 13 hugely successful years with the club.
The modern-day legend will now support the Baggies from afar while he continues his playing career elsewhere.
And he is hoping Albion can replicate Sheffield United, who went up as runners up last year but have taken the Premier League by storm this season.
"I think becoming an established Premier League side has to be the aim for this club," Brunt said.
"We recruited well this season for this league, we got some good young players in who want to play in the Premier League.
"It’s important the football club does that now to take that next step.
"I think the hard work starts now for the football club if they want to be a Premier League team for many years to come, like we did before.
"It doesn't happen overnight. It’s difficult and recruitment is going to be a big part of it.
"I'm sure they have been busy working behind the scenes. But obviously not knowing what division you are going to be in until the last day doesn’t help either.
"I think if you look at the teams who went up last year, Norwich have come back down. Villa have struggled.
"But I think Sheffield United are the ones that have done really well.
"Teams that get promoted can take inspiration from them."
