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'Athletic, quick and powerful' - Cutler on new-boy Sam

ALBION have not just signed a future Premier League keeper but a man who can go all the way to the England team.

That's the confident view of goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler after watching Sam Johnstone drive through the gates of Palm Training Ground and become an Albion player.

After a nomadic experience so typical of young keepers making their way, Johnstone is thrilled to get the opportunity to put some roots down and establish himself.

Cutler, who first worked with Sam during one of his many loans to Scunthorpe, reckons the Baggies have signed a player of exceptional potential.

"I've known him since he was a young keeper at Manchester United and tracked his career for a long time," says Cutler.

"I took him on loan at Scunthorpe. I know all about his character and the way he plays. He's a confident boy; he's driven to be better, driven to be the best.

"He's a Premier League goalkeeper without a doubt. It's about getting him into the Premier League with us and I want get him into the England team. That's my ambition.

"His qualities? Athletic, quick, powerful...his all-round play is really good. He's also calm, never looks flustered. He's already got experience and has played plenty of Championship games. In my view, he was the best keeper in the Championship last season.

"He's calm in possession if you want to go that way too. I believe he is a great asset to the club."

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