Bristol Rovers have confirmed that Josh Griffiths has been recalled by his parent club West Brom in a major blow in the final hours of the January transfer window.
The Baggies sanctioned the sale of long-term first-choice goalkeeper Alex Palmer to Premier League side Ipswich Town, creating a ripple effect that unfortunately affected the Gas with the Championship side opting to recall Griffiths. It is expected that he will be their new number one for the remainder of the campaign.
The goalkeeper has been an extremely strong contender for Rovers’ player of the season so far, making a number of crucial saves to win them points while playing every single minute of League One football so far this term. In fact, the 23-year-old ranks highest for saves in the third tier by some margin with 110. Second place Max Crocombe at Burton Albion has 90.
Griffiths’ departure is a significant setback for the Gas’ season with Inigo Calderon warning after Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Peterborough that, while the window was still open, the club could still lose players when the focus had mainly been on who Rovers might sign on deadline day.
However, Bristol Live understands that there will be a solution to the goalkeeper’s departure, although it is currently unclear whether that will be the recall of Jed Ward from Forest Green Rovers or the arrival of a new shot stopper.
Rovers have until 11pm this evening to complete any remaining business.
More to follow…