West Bromwich Albion have suffered a major blow after it was confirmed that striker Josh Maja is set for an extended period of the sidelines.
The 26-year-old has been in electric form this season, scoring 12 goals in 26 Championship appearances. This has helped the Baggies move into the play-off places as they continue to target a second successive top six finish.
Maja joined the West Midlands-based side in the summer of 2023 from French outfit Bordeaux. However, he suffered an injury-hit debut campaign which ruled him out for four months between December and April.
He has led the line admirably this season and recently ended an eight-game run without a goal when he netted a brace in the 3-1 in over Preston North End. His return to form and fitness had allegedly caught the attention of Premier League duo Chelsea an Tottenham Hotspur, leading to West Brom placing a £15 million fee on his head.
Maja Set To Miss ‘Several Weeks’
Maja missed last weekend’s FA Cup defeat against Bournemouth, who have ironically also been linked with the player in recent weeks. The club have now confirmed that he will undergo surgery for a lower leg issue, with spring being targeted as a comeback. Via the official club website, the statement read:
“Josh Maja is set to be out for several weeks after sustaining a lower leg injury.
“The 26-year-old striker will undergo surgery in the coming days before entering a period of rehabilitation.
“Albion hope to have Maja back in contention during the spring.
“Everyone at the club wishes Josh well in his recovery.”
The Express & Star have reported that Albion will turn to the transfer market this month as they look to solve their lack of attacking options.
Writer’s View
This is a huge blow for West Brom, who were heavily reliant on the striker in the attacking end of the field. Maja has double the amount of goals than anyone else in the squad and the Baggies will be keen to bring in a new recruit as soon as possible to solve the issue. However, looking at this from a ‘glass half full’ perspective, the injury will end any reported interest from teams in the Premier League. It is unlikely that anyone will be looking to sign a player who is set to miss the next couple of months or so, meaning that Albion should be able to call upon the attcker for the business end of the season.