Steve Bruce hails Taylor Gardner-Hickman after West Brom win, video shows youngster post-game
Steve Bruce has hailed the influence of West Brom youngster Taylor Gardner-Hickman following his start in the win against Hull City.
The victory was the manager’s first with the Baggies since he replaced Valerien Ismael a month ago, and arrested a seven-game winless run.
Fans had been clamouring to see more of the 20-year-old as a midfield option after the versatile player had only seen a 10-minute cameo of action under the new boss, and he was finally given his chance from the start, playing 87 minutes alongside returning captain Jake Livermore in the middle of the park.
Video from Birmingham Live reporter Joe Chapman, posted on his Twitter page, showed the youngster applauding the appreciative traveling fans on his own after the game.
Bruce said after the match, via Chapman: “He does what a young kid does – he gives you that vital ingredient which is enthusiasm.
“He wants to do well. He took the long way around for the applause at the finish.”
Better late than never
Finally the Baggies support have something to celebrate after the long run of dreadful form and awful performances.
It would be premature to think that a playoff place is back on the cards after one victory against 20th-placed Hull, but if they can find some form it is not yet out of the question.
Gardner-Hickman played a key role in the second goal, twice closing down the Hull defence before stealing possession and being felled for a penalty.
The side seemed energised in the match, after a string of performances where they appeared devoid of inspiration and creativity.
Fans will be feeling vindicated after calling for the youth product to get a chance, and to see him play a big role in an improved performance will be pleasing.
They would be justified in asking why it took so long to get there for the former Newcastle manager, but perhaps now he can look forward to a run in the team.
The two strikes from Karlan Grant were only the second and third under Bruce, so the ex-Hull boss will need to build on the positives that were on show at long last.
In other West Brom news, The Athletic have highlighted which Baggie has been receiving the most abuse during the recent slump.
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