Boss delivers 'big future' verdict after huge West Brom boost

The 20-year-old academy graduate committed his future to the Baggies earlier this month by agreeing an improved two-year extension to his deal at The Hawthorns.

Attack-minded midfielder Whitwell has enjoyed a breakthrough few months under Morrison having grasped an opportunity during pre-season.

He has started in eight of Albion’s 10 games this term - six in the Championship - and scored twice. Morrison believes a new contract is the club’s reward for developing Whitwell as a youngster and expects big things.

"Yes (it was big news) - and it's getting the rewards from all of the years that we put into him, really,” Morrison said.

"He'll learn from the game against Wolves, but he's going to be a big player for us.

"We're delighted we've secured his signature. He'll learn from the game and I'm confident he'll go again.”

Whitwell, who has been with the Baggies since aged 11, opened his goalscoring account for Albion in the EFL Cup win at Rotherham on the first day of the season.

He netted a first Championship goal in the impressive win over Burnley two weeks later.

Whitwell came through the ranks in a more central role for Albion’s youth set-up and progressed into the under-21s ranks by the age of 16.

The rangy midfielder has been selected on the right of Morrison’s side so far this season. He was handed a start in the disappointing Black Country defeat at Wolves prior to the international break, but struggled to make an impact along with colleagues.

"His performances deserved it (the Wolves start),” Morrison added. “Obviously he didn't play in the game before against QPR, and I took him off early, but I believe in him 100 per cent."