Roy Hodgson says Shane Long will have every opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League.
Long became Albion’s record transfer buy yesterday with Hodgson predicting a bright future for the Republic of Ireland international.
The former Reading man will bring much needed competition up front to star striker Peter Odemwingie. But Hodgson has hinted he may pair the two up front this season.
"We don't sign players of Long's quality and pay the money that a player of Long's quality costs as a back-up," said the Baggies boss.
"Manchester City do that but we don't.
"If we spend serious money on a player we do it to get the player in the team.
"We brought him in because of his track record and the fact I think he will suit West Bromwich Albion really well because he is a hard-working player.
"He is all-action, he is good in the penalty area, he can score goals, he makes runs and he's a good age.
"He's done brilliantly to come from Ireland and make the step to Reading, which was a big step coming from the small club in Ireland where he was playing.
"He has managed that brilliantly and got himself into the Irish team and now I think he is ready for the next step, which is the Premier League and a good team in the Premier League.
"I would like to think it's a good marriage because we're the right team for him at this moment in time and he is certainly the right player for us."
Can Long and Odemwingie play together? Have your say at Baggies Banter here.