Oliver offers something new to Baggies

OLIVER Burke is ready to become a “different outlet” for the first team after scoring for West Bromwich Albion Under 23s in Tuesday’s defeat to Coventry City.

Burke had hoped to make just his third senior appearance in last weekend’s game at Huddersfield Town.

But medics opted not to risk the 20-year-old (pictured), who has struggled with a hamstring injury since his summer switch.

He was rested before his first 90 minutes for the Baggies in the 2-1 Checkatrade Trophy loss against League Two promotion hopefuls Coventry.

“The Huddersfield game I travelled but didn’t play as a precaution,” he said.

“Obviously with my hamstring and the fact that I hadn’t played a full game yet, to come on would have been risky.

“But I’ve got the minutes under my belt now.

“The hamstring is great. I feel back to my normal self and I’m really happy.

“I’m really happy to get the minutes in and a full game.

“It’s something I haven’t been able to do in a long time because of my injury so I’m chuffed to bits – and I’m happy to score as well.”

Burke, a £15 million signing from German side RB Leipzig, was withdrawn from the Scotland Under 21 squad to continue rehabilitation with his club. And the former Forest winger now has his sights set on finally making an impact for the first team.

“My focus switches to the first team now,” he said.

“I want to help them as much as I can and give them a different outlet on the park.

“I feel fit and ready to go so I’m looking forward to helping the team.”

After defeats to Walsall and League One leaders Shrewsbury Town, Albion’s Under 23s had already been eliminated from the Checkatrade Trophy before the game at Coventry.

And Burke was quick to praise Jimmy Shan’s youthful side for their character and commitment in running the Sky Blues so close.

“I’m delighted for the team because we were a really young side,” he said.

“Some of them are first year and second year scholars so doing well against a first team.

“I’m dead chuffed for the boys.”