Express & Star

Rekeem Harper eager to stake claim for West Brom starting spot

Midfielder Rekeem Harper says he is going to do everything he can to force his way into Albion’s starting XI.

Published
Last updated
Rekeem Harper of West Bromwich Albion is surrounded by Brentford players. (AMA)

The academy graduate – who joined the club aged 12 – featured 13 times for the Baggies last season as they won promotion to the Premier League.

But strengthening his central midfield options has been a key priority for head coach Slaven Bilic during the summer transfer window.

Dynamic box-to-box midfielder Conor Gallagher has arrived on a season-long loan from Chelsea, while the Baggies are also set to announce that they have re-signed Filip Krovinovic today – with the Croatian arriving in another loan deal from Benfica following his success at The Hawthorns last season. Despite those arrivals, though, Harper is determined to prove to Bilic is ready for the Premier League.

“I’ve got big plans to play as many games as possible in the Premier League,” the 20-year-old said.

“I want to experience it because we are not here to make up the numbers.

“Establishing myself as a Premier League player is important.

“I believe in myself and with games I am going to get better, gain more confidence and a greater knowledge of the league.

“He (Bilic) has seen a lot of change in me in terms of my mentality, work-rate and consistency to my performances.

“And he said that I was going to get opportunities – so he has stuck to his word.

“Any game in the first-team is a blessing and it’s always an opportunity to show what I can bring.

“A lot of the assistants and Slaven are good at telling me exactly what is needed in my role.

“I think with the systems we play, I’ll be involved a lot more so I’m just trying to learn from the players around me and take those things into my game.

“Whether that be intensity, picking up the ball, looking over shoulders.

“I’m looking to use those lessons and hopefully then my opportunities will come.”