Somen Tchoyi backed by Shane Long
Tuesday 30th August 2011, 3:00PM BST.
Albion striker Shane Long believes Somen Tchoyi has staked a claim for a regular Baggies starting berth after his transition from midfield to attack.
The Cameroon international has started the first three games of the Premier League season alongside summer signing Long up front.
And, despite the prospect of Peter Odemwingie returning from ankle trouble in the next three weeks, Long reckons Tchoyi’s displays have given boss Roy Hodgson food for thought.
The Republic of Ireland forward said: “He’s not afraid to hit the ball and he manages to get himself out wide with the centre-backs, which is not where a central defender wants to be.
“Then he takes them on and puts in a great ball – I nearly scored a goal from his work on Sunday. He’s a good lad and I’m sure he will chip in with a few goals as well.
“It’s disappointing that Peter’s injured, but Tchoyi set me up once or twice against Stoke on Sunday and he’s a handful. He has been playing really well.
“Marc-Antoine Fortune scored two goals at Bournemouth in the week and with Simon Cox, myself and Peter there are a few options for the gaffer up front.”
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