Jordan Hugill was not a panic signing by West Bromwich Albion head coach Valerien Ismael, according to Express & Star reporter Luke Hatfield.
Baggies boss Ismael had been keen to strengthen his striking options since taking charge in June and completed the signing of Hugill on a season-long loan from Premier League new-boys Norwich City just a matter of days before the closure of the transfer window.
The move came after Albion had been linked with a number of other frontmen, including Orlando City’s Daryl Dike – who Ismael worked with during his spell in charge of Barnsley – and Manchester City youngster Liam Delap.
Will Hugill be a success at West Brom?
Yes
No
Hugill has struggled for goals since swapping Preston North End for West Ham United three years ago.
The 29-year-old was only afforded three appearances for the Hammers and went on to join Norwich, where he scored five goals in 34 outings last year.
However, Hugill found the back of the net 15 times during a loan spell at Queens Park Rangers, while he was still on West Ham’s books, and Hatfield has backed the frontman to succeed under Ismael.
He told TIF: “I don’t think signing Hugill was desperation at all. I think, having spoken to Valerien Ismael a few times, you get the vibe off him that he was very much trying to find the right player with the right mentality for the system he has.
“I think you could offer him the best flair player in the world but he would much rather have someone who is willing to put in a shift and still has some ability. I think Hugill probably hits the mark perfectly for Ismael.
“He will work hard in the striker role and is a natural striker. It wasn’t a sign of desperation at all.”