Why Hindolo Mustapha missed West Brom vs Stoke as injury update emerges just days after deadline day loan
Hindolo Mustapha was not part of West Brom’s squad for Saturday’s Championship clash against Stoke City.
Mustapha joined West Brom on loan from Crystal Palace on Monday, shortly before the winter transfer window closed for business.
The attacking midfielder was expected to be part of West Brom‘s squad to face Stoke at The Hawthorns, even if not as a starter.
However, Mustapha‘s name was not on the teamsheet when it dropped a little over an hour before kick-off, with the reason behind that now being explained.
Hindolo Mustapha not yet fit for West Brom debut
Mustapha has had four days to get to know his new teammates ahead of the huge clash with Stoke.
However, as reported by The Express & Star’s Lewis Cox via X, the 19-year-old is not yet considered ready for action.
While Mustapha is not injured, as such, he is being slowly worked up to full speed ahead of making his debut.
Many West Brom fans will no doubt raise eyebrows at this update, as this is not the time to slowly integrate players into the side.
Saturday’s clash with Stoke is as big as games come for the Baggies, and under-fire boss Eric Ramsay could do with every player possible.
What has Mustapha promised to bring to West Brom?
Mustapha’s debut will now have to wait until Tuesday’s derby showdown with Birmingham City at the earliest.
Once unleashed, the Crystal Palace youngster should add something different in the final third for the Baggies.
In his first interview upon joining earlier this week, Mustapha said: “As a player, I would say I’m fast, strong and creative on the ball. I just want to get on the front foot and make things happen in the final third.“
Albion fans were quick to point out that Mustapha has probably therefore joined the wrong club if that is what he intends to bring.
Jokes aside, though, the teenage attacker is clearly a big talent and Palace fans think he is destined for the top.
Hopefully West Brom fans get to see that sooner rather than later, even if it is not against Stoke City as expected.