Daryl Dike rapidly earning new West Brom contract as Shilen Patel watches on
Daryl Dike is going the right way to earn a new contract at West Bromwich Albion.
The American striker is out of contract in the summer, and it looked as though he was resigned to leaving The Hawthorns after an injury-hit campaign.
However, he has notched two goals in his last two matches, which could perhaps change the hierarchy’s mind over a new deal.
The 25.-year-old scored the second in the 2-0 win over Watford on 21 April, with owner Shilen Patel watching on from the stands.
West Brom’s decision on Dike may be more complicated than first thought, if he continues his recent hot streak in front of goal.
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Why Dike could have earned a new West Brom contract
Dike was named in the starting line-up alongside Josh Maja for the first time, and he justified his selection.
He had four touches in the opposition box, two shots with one of them going in the goal, per data from Fotmob.
The forward also helped out defensively, making one block, one recovery and two clearances.
| Dike’s stats vs Watford | |
| Goals | 1 |
| Touches (inside opp box) | 25 (4) |
| Pass accuracy | 67% |
| Ground duels won | 3/4 (75%) |
| Aerial duels won | 3/6 (50%) |
In terms of duels, he won three of four that he attempted on the ground, for a 75 per cent success rate and three of six in the air, for a 50 per cent success rate.
He was eventually replaced by Aune Heggebo in the 74th minute to a standing ovation from the crowd as they showed their appreciation.
Why Dike may be confident of an extension
James Morrison will surely be in the running for the permanent role after the turnaround that he has presided over in recent weeks.
He may well have been sold by Dike’s showings in the last two games, and decides that he wants him as a part of the squad next season, as the attacker is rapidly earning fresh terms.
Clearly, when he is fit, he is a handful for opposition defences, and if Albion can find the formula to keep him injury-free, it could be a game-changer when the new campaign rolls around.
Scoring in front of Bilkul Football’s chief figurehead is not a bad way to seal yourself a new deal, if that turns out to be what happens.
He certainly has not done his case any harm in the last few weeks, and has increased his chances of staying in B71 tremendously.
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