An interesting season appears to lie ahead for West Bromwich Albion with nobody really sure in which way it is going to go.

The arrival of a proven Premier League and International manager in Slaven Bilic has helped lift the mood of the fans but the task of significantly trimming the wage bill continues to pose a big stumbling block in their path to promotion.

But there is no doubt that a lot of work will be going on behind the scenes to ensure that if big names are sold that they are adequately replaced.

One big name whose departure is already being felt at the Hawthorns is Dwight Gayle who has returned to Newcastle following a hugely fruitful loan spell with the Baggies.

The hunt for his replacement is well under way but former Preston North End man Jordan Hugill is not the answer Bilic is looking for.

According to the Guardian, West Brom were offered him by West Ham but it was an offer that was rejected.

And here are THREE reasons why it was the right call...

Significant downgrade 

There is no question that Hugill has the ability to cut it in the Championship - he proved that with Preston two seasons ago.

But there is equally no doubt that he is a massive downgrade on Dwight Gayle.

The 28-year-old netter 23 times and assisted eight more last season and it would be a massive ask of Hugill, who so far has notched 29 in 137 second tier games, to match that tally.

Confidence 

Hugill's move to West Ham was an enormous mistake from both parties.

He has made just three appearances and undoubtedly had his confidence shattered in the process which, whilst it is a massive shame, is not something that West Brom should feel they have to fix.

His spell with Middlesbrough last season showed signs of his ability but seven goals in 41 matches for a promotion contender is not great at all.

Fan expectations 

Whilst the majority well on board with the appointment of Bilic the club must be careful to keep the fans on side this summer.

Having already failed to land Dwight Gayle again confidence in their transfer window ability is already low and replacing his record with one like Hugill's could tip the balance.

We saw in the second leg of their play-off semi-final how big an influence a positive atmosphere could have so if that turns poisonous again they could be in real trouble.