Oliver Burke hoping to force his way into the West Brom team
Oliver Burke hopes he’s given Baggies boss Darren Moore food for thought after his first senior goal for the club.
Having endure a frustrating first season at The Hawthorns, the 21-year-old admitted he still needs more games before he reaches his full potential.
But after netting the winner against Luton Town in midweek on just his third start for the Baggies, he hopes he is now knocking on the door of the team.
“I really want to show what I’m capable of, what I can do and how I can help the team,” said Burke.
“Hopefully it gives the gaffer something to think about. I want to be a regular.
“That was only my third start at West Brom so I still have a lot of learning to do before I can hit that peak of feeling really good.
“It’s going to take a few games to get into my stride, but that was a great start.
“I’m a confidence player, so when given enough opportunities I can really give strength to the team.”
Burke started the Championship season brightly two years ago, when he scored four goals in five games for Nottingham Forest before RB Leipzig signed him for £13m.
But he’s endured a tough time since then, having struggled in Germany and during his first season at The Hawthorns.
“Obviously the first season [at Albion] was difficult and very frustrating not getting the opportunity and then the injury,” said Burke. “Unfortunately that’s part of football.
“But now I feel ready, I feel fit, sharper, and hopefully this season I can push on and show everyone what I’m capable of.”
Burke benefited from a new central role against Luton, where his pace off the shoulder of the last man looked dangerous.
“I see myself anywhere up the top half of the pitch,” he said. “I’ll play anywhere, as long as I’m playing.
“Playing striker was different, but I’ve played there before [for Scotland] and felt confident there.
“I know what it takes in the Championship. I did it at Nottingham Forest and know I’m capable of doing it here.
“I feel very much at home here, it’s just about opportunity. When it comes I have to take it.”
The Baggies are still hoping to sign a right-back on loan this week, but need to complete the deal before 12noon on Friday to have any new man available on Saturday.
