Don Goodman was gushing over Rekeem Harper after the West Brom midfielder impressed the Sky Sports pundit in the 2-0 win against Bolton.
Albion moved within three points of the automatic promotion spots thanks to goals in each half by Jay Rodriguez and Sam Field at the University of Bolton Stadium on Monday night.
Harper, 18, earned just his third league appearance of the season in the victory, and Goodman was so impressed by the fringe player that he named his as the man of the match.
“This young man Rekeem Harper, I think he has been excellent,” said Goodman during Sky Sports Main Event’s live commentary on Monday night [09:51pm].
“He’s covered an awful lot of ground and does look like he as the ability to run with the ball as well in those midfield areas.
“The best passing accuracy in the game, so well done to him.”
OPINION
Darren Moore has to get Harper tied down to a new contract as soon as possible because the midfielder’s deal expires at the end of the season and it is clear that he is a special young talent. The 18-year-old was amazing against Norwich earlier this month and although he failed to meet that level of performance at Bolton, he still did enough to impress ex-West Brom and Wolves star Goodman. Matt Phillips’ absence from the side due to the injury was certainly felt on Monday night and Harper had to do a lot to play as well as the Scotland international, who has been so key to the way that the Baggies play. It’s important to remember that Harper is still young and has only made nine first team appearances for West Brom. Once he plays a bit more regularly he will be a force to be reckoned with. Which is why Moore has to hand him a new deal as soon as he can.