West Brom could have perfect Furlong heir in “outstanding” gem starring out on loan – opinion

Soon, West Bromwich Albion hopes to bring out the best in this young player, who may eventually take Darnell Furlong’s place.

West Bromwich Albion, led by Carlos Corberan, is eight points clear of seventh place following a 2-0 victory over Bristol City, and they are certain that they will compete in the Championship playoffs at the conclusion of the regular season.

That win showed how well West Brom can grind out three points when it matters most to maintain their hold on a top-six position. The West Midlands team hasn’t lost in the second division since falling to Southampton in the middle of February.

To make the victory less nerve-wracking, Darnell Furlong produced another quiet but excellent performance against the Robins. He continued his excellent individual season, which has seen him establish himself as a reliable member of the Baggies back four. Furlong won seven duels.

Even if the number two for West Brom is still a reliable player, Corberan and company will be keeping an eye on a promising newcomer who has the potential to eventually replace the 28-year-old defender.

The tenure of Ethan Ingram at West Brom

Twenty-year-old Ethan Ingram is well-liked in the West Midlands. He can play anywhere down the right-hand side, whether it’s as a disciplined right-back or farther forward as a gallivanting winger.

Not only has Ingram played 82 games for the U18 and U21 teams, but he has also demonstrated his creative ability while playing defence in the Premier League 2 last season, recording four assists from 19 games.

The six-foot-one talent has totaled nine assists in different age groups, and Ingram has occasionally given him opportunities to join the West Brom first squad due to his impressive performances.

Ingram made three senior games for the Baggies before to being loaned to League Two Salford City to further test himself in the men’s game.

Regretfully, Corberan chose to pass on selecting Ingram in favour of giving fellow homegrown product Tom Fellows additional chances to flourish in August of this season.

However, given his strong performances while on loan at the Peninsula Stadium thus far, he might be in the West Brom manager’s future plans.

Numbers from Ethan Ingram’s tenure at Salford City
Of course, if Ingram was thrust into Championship—or perhaps Premier League—football the next season, his calibre would undoubtedly soar.

But after adjusting to the fourth tier with ease, Ingram will have his moment to shine if patience is used.

Before being fired at the end of 2023, former Salford manager Neil Wood called Ingram a “outstanding” talent. Since moving to his new position, Ingram has excelled playing both as a right flank and right-back.

Even more impressively, the 20-year-old scored his first senior goal while on the Ammies in October, curling in a goal against Swindon Town after charging forward with lightning-fast acceleration.

Apart from the fact that his raiding runs have paid off, Ingram has also settled into the Salford lineup as a dependable defender who, like Furlong, can produce tough performances.

After making 21 appearances in League Two, Ingram has averaged 4.6 duels won per game. He has also demonstrated his attacking ability by creating four great chances altogether. With this success, Ingram may be a candidate for further opportunities at his parent club come next season.

Furlong is playing at the peak of his abilities this season, so the Baggies should take advantage of their always-dependable 28-year-old while they can before discussing a move to Ingram to take over as number two should he start to fade.

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