New contract is a huge boost for West Brom star

Mowatt played a pivotal role in Carlos Corberan’s side – becoming a mainstay in midfield alongside Okay Yokuslu as Albion reached the play-offs.

After being offered a new deal at the end of the season, it was confirmed earlier this month that the former Barnsley man had penned a new two-year contract.

And speaking on the upcoming episode of the Express & Star’s Baggies Broadcast podcast, former midfielder Johnson praised Albion for keeping Mowatt at the club – and believes his best years are still to come.

He said: “Alex Mowatt is up there for me as player of the season, I know Kipre won it but Mowatt was just behind along with a couple of others. He is 29 and I think we’ve got the best years of his career to come in terms of being in the best shape and in terms of ability. It is great news and great business by the club.”

News on Mowatt’s deal at the start of July coincided with team-mate Kyle Bartley also extending his stay at The Hawthorns.

Bartley had previously found himself out of favour prior to Corberan’s arrival at the club in 2022 - before re-establishing himself as a key figure in the side.

He has now signed a one-year contract extension with the option of a second depending on appearances. And with Cedric Kipre all set for the Albion exit door after his contract came to an end, Johnson insists it was vital the club tied Bartley down to another deal.

“Bartley gives you a massive physical presence from set pieces, attacking and defensively,” added Johnson. “In the box he doesn’t pick up a man but he attacks and wins most things.

“Last season he did ever so well. He was out of the fold before Carlos arrived, but came in and Carlos loved him.

“It is brilliant he has got another year with an option, he is a big presence around the ground and dressing room on a weekly basis.

“And with the Cedric Kipre situation it is likely he will play all the games.”