Albion teenager Joss Labadie has signed his first professional contract at the Hawthorns.
The 17-year-old midfielder, who is a product of the Baggies academy, has sealed a one-year deal with a further year’s option in the club’s favour.
The young Londoner is excited at the prospect of teaming up daily with the club’s first team stars, especially captain Jonathan Greening.
He said: “I am chuffed to bits. I’m really pleased that I’ve got one year and I’ll take it from there.
“It’s really good to play with the first teams and the seasoned professionals.
“I’m delighted. I am always learning and they are teaching me new things and showing me how to cope with the pressure.
“Jonno is someone I look up to. He gives me little tips and hints here and there.
“I want to push on now and mix it with the professionals on a more regular basis.
“The manager is a great manager and a good coach and I enjoy working with him.”
Labadie joined the Baggies’ academy at the end of the 2005/06 season after being spotted by scouts at Barking Abbey College of Sport and impressing coaches during a trial.
He made 19 appearances for Albion’s reserves last season, including two as a substitute, and scored three times.
He was also named academy player of the year by the Baggies’ official supporters’ club.
The newest member of the Albion senior squad today described himself as an all-action player with a liking for set-pieces.
He said: “I would say I am a defensive midfielder, quite loud and in your face and I like to get at people.”
“I like to get on free-kicks given my chance.
“I like shooting from outside the box and I try my luck whenever I can.”
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