Carter Pinnington has 'long way to go' but West Brom defender already showing key signs

Carter Pinnington will be an interesting name for West Brom supporters to keep an eye on.

The former Liverpool academy starlet joined the Baggies this summer, leaving his boyhood club after 13 years.

Albion did not pay a fee for the 19-year-old and will instead compensate the Anfield outfit through a sell-on and appearance-based add ons.

He has initially been drafted into the Under-21 side, but is expected to eventually feature in James Morrison's senior side.

Only time will tell when the Black Country outfit will feel that he is ready to step up.

Supporters have now been provided with insight into when that could be.

Is Carter Pinnington at the right level at West Brom?

Pinnington was highly-rated with the Reds and will be hoping to emulate fellow former Liverpool man Nat Phillips, who is a regular starter.

A source who has witnessed the young defender's rise through the academy system, shared whether Pinnington is ready for a senior opportunity.

Speaking exclusively to West Brom News, they said: “I have saw loads of him.

“He has played a bit of left back and even as a six in his final season but he is a good strong left-footed centre back, good in the air and a set piece threat.

“He has a long way to go. He’s got plenty of raw ability though, the Under-21s is the right place for him for now, for sure."

That matches with how the West Midlands side have assessed him, but also provides encouragement about how far he could go at The Hawthorns.

Why Pinnington has the raw attributes for first-team success

The attributes highlighted by the source, should help him to make an impression on the boss when he is around the academy sides.

The fact that he is left-footed and strong in the air give him a good chance to rise into the first-team in the near future.

It will also help his case that he is capable of playing on the left side of defence or in midfield, as managers often rely on versatile players when injury hits.

He was seen as a real coup when the B71 side secured his services, they will hope that he can show his quality sooner rather than later.