West Bromwich Albion have confirmed a massive injury blow ahead of their clash with Sheffield United this weekend.

West Bromwich Albion will be without winger Mikey Johnston for Saturday’s trip to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United because of an ankle injury.

The former Celtic man, who has been linked with a move to Bramall Lane in the past, was forced off in the first half of last Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Oxford United at the Kassam Stadium. He was taken off after just 22 minutes and was replaced by Ollie Bostock, who got himself on the scoresheet 11 minutes later.

Johnston’s first half exit, of course, sparked concerns the Republic of Ireland international had encountered a serious injury - a fear the Baggies have now confirmed.

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Issuing an update on Wednesday morning, the Baggies, in a statement on their club website, said: “Albion can confirm winger Mikey Johnston suffered a stress fracture to his ankle during Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship match against Oxford United.

“The Republic of Ireland international sustained the injury in the middle of the opening period at the Kassam Stadium.

“Johnston is due to see a specialist later this week, where he will receive a full prognosis and establish a timescale for his return.”

Johnston injury marks a huge blow

The 26-year-old has been a shining light during what has been a difficult season for the Baggies, scoring two goals and registering nine assists in 34 Championship appearances. Only the Blades’ Gustavo Hamer has created more goals in the division this term, registering ten assists.

The Hawthorns outfit currently find themselves in the thick of the Championship relegation battle after their recent defeat at Oxford stretched their winless run in the league to 11 matches. They last got three points on the board when they beat QPR 2-1 on December 29.

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A disappointing run of form over Christmas and New Year saw the Baggies sack boss Ryan Mason on January 6, and he was quickly replaced by Eric Ramsay. However, the former Minnesota United boss was sacked after just 44 days in charge after failing to win any of his nine games at the helm.

They are yet to appoint Ramsay’s successor and are currently under the interim stewardship of former Baggies player James Morrison.