Darren Moore: Bakary Sako will only get better for West Brom

The former Wolves winger played his first game for Albion on Saturday in a 1-1 draw with Tony Mowbray's Blackburn Rovers, starting up front in place of the injured Dwight Gayle.

Although he lacked match sharpness, he did show flashes of potential before being brought off on the hour mark for Wes Hoolahan.

"He's not played for eight or nine months," said Moore. "We got him upto the standard where he can handle the game.

"Once he gets more minutes, he'll only get stronger. We saw glimpses of his quality, we're pleased to have him on board, he gives us another option."

Sako wasn't the only fringe player to get the nod on Saturday, as Moore dealt with a mounting injury list.

Long-serving midfielder James Morrison started just his second league game of the season and summer signing Conor Townsend replaced the injured Kieran Gibbs and left wing-back.

Moore said all three impressed him, and he plans to rewatch the game before deciding whether they deserve to keep their place for the trip to Hull on Saturday.

"I thought they did well," said Moore. "I thought Mozza was really good, we're delighted to have him back.

"Conor came in and I'm pleased for Bakary as well. Those three will only get stronger so I'm really pleased. Those players have played their part.

"We'll have a look at their performances when we analyse the game with regards to next week."

Saturday's game was marred by a serious facial injury to Rovers keeper David Raya inadvertently caused by Jay Rodriguez, who immediately apologised for catching him.

Raya was taken to hospital with Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray saying: "The players were feeling sick with what they saw. It's a really bad injury. The nose was hanging off."

Rodriguez was 'gutted' after the game for causing the injury.

“I wish him well," said the striker. "It’s not a nice thing, and I hope he has a speedy recovery. Let’s hope he’s back on the pitch soon.”