Having started the season strongly under Valerien Ismael, O'Shea's progress was derailed by a significant ankle injury that ruled him out from late August to early February.

With Semi Ajayi, Kyle Bartley, Cedric Kipre and Kean Bryan still present at The Hawthorns, there will be plenty of competition for places in pre-season and O'Shea will be hoping to push his way to the front of the queue.

The Verdict

 

 

There could still be defensive reinforcements to come in the Black Country.

Bruce seems content with his goalkeeping contingent of David Button, Alex Palmer and Josh Griffiths, but depending on loan movements and how the Baggies start the season, that could be an area to address before the window closes.

It is very important for O'Shea to perform well this upcoming season, entering the final year of his contract, and his chances of returning to the Premier League in the near future will be dented significantly if he does not earn a new deal next summer.

The Irishman is a better ball player than the majority of the centre backs at Bruce's disposal and that may see him rise up the pecking order, once his fitness is proven.