West Brom star Daryl Dike claims injury woes will fuel him next season
West Brom striker Daryl Dike has claimed that his injury horror will drive him to success next season in an interview with the Express & Star.
The 22-year-old suffered a season-ending injury in just his second appearance following his £7million move from Orlando City in January.
However, the American international told the Express & Star that this has only added to his desire to succeed next season.
“I think not playing football for a long time is something that has fuelled my hunger, fuelled my desire,” he claimed.
“Mentally, I’m a competitor, I love to play all the time, I enjoy playing.
“To sit on the sidelines and watch every single game, itching to play, knowing that I’m so close to be able to play is one thing, and of course, you always want to help them, help the squad, help the guys.”
Dike will be like a new signing
Dike has tragically not had a chance to make his mark at Albion yet, but next season gives him the perfect opportunity.
Steve Bruce is believed to be in the market for a striker this summer, but Dike could provide the quality on his own.
During his time at both Orlando and Barnsley, Dike showed he is a lethal finisher with an impressive strike rate.
He has bagged 19 goals in his last 29 starts, scoring at a consistent rate of around 0.63 goals per 90 minutes (FBRef).
Comparing his form since his move to Barnsley in 2021 to Karlan Grant’s numbers last season, the stats look very favourable for Dike.
Last season, Grant managed to hit 18 goals in 44 matches, a rate of just under a goal every other game (FBRef). This comes out at under Dike’s rate over his last 18 months, though much of his football was spent in the MLS.
Grant’s shooting is nearly exactly the same as Dike’s, with both taking 2-3 shots per 90 minutes and getting 41% on target. The pair have an equal number of goals scored whilst on the pitch, showing both are comfortable playing a central role.
On the defensive side, both players make just as many pressures with an equal success rate as well as an equal number of blocks and clearances.
Dike has the potential to be just as effective as Grant if he remains fit next season and his return will come as a welcome boost to Bruce.
In other West Brom news, Baggies majority shareholder Guochuan Lai has enraged fans by taking a near-£5 million loan out of the club for himself.