West Brom have every right to be excited by Barney Stewart after first interview
West Bromwich Albion confirmed the signing of Barney Stewart on Wednesday, with the former Falkirk striker already eager to show what he can do.
After scoring 19 goals across the 2025-26 season, the 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a four-year deal at The Hawthorns, in a deal worth £1.3million.
Named Scottish Football Writers' Young Player of the Year, the hype is certainly there with the young forward.
The Baggies themselves are looking to bounce back after a dismal Championship return last term, finishing 21st.
They did come on strong towards the end, though, with former midfielder James Morrison securing survival at the helm after a 10-match unbeaten run.
The reset starts with Stewart, and based on his comments following his arrival, Albion have landed the right man.
Barney Stewart is a confident figure based on recent comments
After his breakout season in Scotland, Stewart is most certainly a confident forward.
In his opening interview with West Brom's media team, the 22-year-old backed this up.
"I saw a stat the other day which said that only one of my goals was scored when I had a touch before the finish," he said. "Which suggests there's plenty of first-time finishes.
"I come to life in and around the box and that's my speciality. I'm very confident I can score goals here at the Albion, just like I did last year for Dunfermline and Falkirk."
Spotted playing as an amateur for Heriot Watt University, Stewart would make his debut for Falkirk in 2025, before being sent back to the Championship following promotion.
Scoring eight in 12, he would return to Falkirk earlier this year, where he impressed in the top flight.
"I'm so excited by the challenge of playing in the Championship," he added.
"I love the frequency of the games and it's one of the best leagues in the world to watch. To be part of this division will be incredible."
West Brom add missing trait with Stewart transfer
Something echoed by Falkirk supporters since the move, is just what an infectious character Stewart is.
In his interview with the Baggies, it was evident from the off just how happy he is to be at The Hawthorns - something that will only benefit Albion as they aim to progress.
Morrison was able to galvanise a downtrodden squad following his arrival earlier this year, and he will be desperate to add more characters to that group.
In Stewart, Albion have secured a player who seems genuinely happy and proud to be at the club, and this could pay dividends, with Morrison needing all the togetherness he can muster as he aims to launch West Brom back up the standings.