West Brom News speaking to Kevin Phillips

Mon 14 March 2022 18:30, UK

We’re delighted to welcome former West Brom striker Kevin Phillips as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at The Hawthorns…

Kevin Phillips believes Taylor Gardner-Hickman could be the ‘jewel in the crown’ that Steve Bruce has been looking for at West Brom after recent performances.

Gardner-Hickman has come into the Baggies starting lineup in the last two games and helped the side claim four points, after they previously suffered six defeats in seven games.

Many fans have called for the 20-year-old to lock down a place in the team now, and Phillips agrees so long as he continues to perform.

“I think he’s a kid,” he told West Brom News exclusively.

“I watched him play earlier on in the season against Coventry and was very impressed, he got man of the match. He’s a player.

“They’ve had to be a bit cautious with him, a young kid, you can’t rely on him too much, but these young kids nowadays they play with no pressure. They’re full of confidence so yeah, so long as he’s performing week in week out, and there’s not a lot of games left, why would he not be?

“So he could be the jewel in the crown that Bruce has been looking for.“

Talent

One thing Valerien Ismael will be positively remembered for at The Hawthorns is bringing through young Gardner-Hickman.

Initially as a wing-back and now in midfield, the youngster has shown his versatility and quality at different points this season and has already committed his long-term future to the club.

The club now should look to solidify his place in the lineup and first-team picture for next season, with the playoffs looking highly unlikely at this stage.

Gardner-Hickman is expected to start against Fulham on Tuesday night in the next home game.

In other West Brom news, View: Steve Bruce to make major decision, senior ace dropped – West Brom predicted XI v Fulham