And defender delighted to beat the Black Cats
LIAM Ridgewell praised Hawthorns debutant Morgan Amalfitano after he netted his first Albion goal in this afternoon’s 3-0 victory over Sunderland.
The 28-year-old attacking midfielder had already been named the espiritUK Man of the Match when he powered a low drive into the bottom-left-hand corner during stoppage time.
Amalfitano was excellent throughout the encounter and delivered telling crosses for each of Albion's first two goals.
And Ridgewell, who was also on the scoresheet as the Baggies recorded their first Barclays Premier League win of the campaign, insists it is not always easy to adapt to English football so quickly.
“He’s a very good player and he’s slotted into the team nicely,” said Ridgewell.
“It was a good display from him today and hopefully that continues.
“I’m glad he’s in our team and not in the opposition’s.
“It’s difficult to come into the Premier League and make an impact straight away.
“He’s managed to do that in his first two games.
“I think that is a sign of quality and I’m sure he will continue to improve as he settles in.”
Ridgewell admits it was important for Albion to come out on top against opposition who were also in need of a confidence-boosting display.
“We needed the win to get us up and running,” he added.
“We knew it was going to be a tough day as they’re just as keen to get going as we are.
“It was a big game for both teams and we were quietly confident we could get a good result as we were at home.
“You could tell during the warm-up that everyone knew this was an important game for us.
“The early goal made a massive difference and it helped us grow into the game.
“We went into the second half and they came back at us again but we got another and that nullified them.”