'Desperate to get him going' - West Brom hope exciting recruit can take flight
Kareem Tunde looks to finally have arrived as an Albion player after capping recent bright cameos with a starring role in two of his side’s goals on Saturday.
Boss James Morrison is desperate to see summer recruit Kareem Tunde fly in an Albion shirt after exciting cameos of late.
The Spanish winger signed from Levante sparkled with his brightest Albion display yet with 15 minutes in the 3-0 home victory over Millwall on Saturday.
He helped create his side’s second goal for Jayson Molumby and a lightning, jinking run led to the late third through Felix Horn Myhre.
Tunde, 21, was also bright in the Preston draw and had 15 minutes in the fine recent win at West Ham. His sole Albion start to date lasted just 45 minutes on September 2 when it was clear fitness was an issue - and Morrison is desperate to see more from the exciting winger.
“He’s something different from everyone in the squad in terms of his running power and with his left foot he can come inside the pitch,” Morrison said.
“I’m desperate to get him going, because he’s going to be a big help to the team.
“I want more from him. I want him out there regularly. But again you’ve got to respect he’s a young lad, he’s come over from Spain and is settling in.
“I’ll give him opportunities because I can see his ability.”
Tunde was given a big build up during the previous extended three-week break across September and October as Albion built up the youngster’s fitness with specific programmes in training.
But, on the eve of the return clash at home to Birmingham the winger felt a minor injury that ruled him out until later into October. He also hurt his foot at West Ham recently.
It has not been the start to Albion life the former Barcelona youngster desired but Morrison was eager to stress a change in culture and lifestyle.
The head coach remains optimistic Tunde will bring much-needed pace to his side, with fellow winger Mikey Johnston still sidelined, but nearing a return.
“Again, we’ll keep working him,” Morrison added. “I’ve felt in his cameos he’s looked (good) and I’ve been wanting to bring him in and get him going.
“He’s had injuries, little niggles and nothing major. I’m eager to get him going.
“I imagine so (he’s been frustrated) but I haven’t seen that frustration coming out yet.”