SIMPSON became Albion's first January 2009 capture on loan until the end of the season.

He made his debut as a half-time substitute in the Baggies' 1-1 FA Cup third-round draw at The Hawthorns just three days after signing.

Simpson, who cannot be recalled by the Gunners at any stage of his spell with Albion, is a highly-rated product of Arsenal's renowned Academy system.

He rose to prominence in November when he crowned his only Gunners start with a deadly double to steer Arsene Wenger's youthful side to a memorable 3-0 Carling Cup win over Wigan on live TV.

Simpson's two other senior appearances for the North London giants also came in the same competition, appearing as a sub both against Sheffield United in September and at Burnley in December.

The powerful forward, who possesses lightning pace, spent the vast majority of last season at League One outfit Millwall, where his electric displays earned him the division's Player-of-the-Year Award.

He made 41 league appearances as a winger, scoring six goals, for the Lions before returning to the Gunners and impressing during pre-season.

Simpson joined Arsenal as a nine-year-old.

He already has a place in Gunners' folklore after becoming the first player to score a competitive hat-trick at the Emirates Stadium, in an FA Youth Cup tie against Cardiff in February 2007.

LAST UPDATED ON JANUARY 5, 2009