And Clarke says his combination with Long in second half paid dividends
STEVE Clarke praised Romelu Lukaku for grabbing his chance by firing the winner in today’s 2-1 win over Norwich.The on-loan Chelsea striker has found starts hard to come by due to the form of Shane Long in spearheading the Baggies attack.
And he responded to making Clarke’s Barclays Premier League XI for only the fifth time by heading his sixth goal of the campaign to become Albion’s leading top-flight goalscorer this term.
“He’s done well,” said the Hawthorns boss.
“He’s a big talent.
“He’s got a big future ahead of him in the game.
“The fact he couldn’t get in the team for most of the season is down to the form of Shane Long, who shouldn’t be forgotten today either.
“I thought Shane made a difference when he came onto the pitch.
“He tied up the other centre-back, which gave a little bit more space to Rom, and maybe that’s why he got the space to score the winning goal.
“It was a fantastic header.
“But it’s a team effort and we don’t like to single out individuals.”