Conor Townsend is determined to grasp the opportunity that has come his way and help Albion continue their impressive start to the season.
The left-back, signed from Scunthorpe United last summer, shone in his first Sky Bet Championship start of the campaign on Monday night as the Baggies triumphed 2-0 at Stoke City.
Townsend was recalled due to Nathan Ferguson's three-match suspension and injury to Kieran Gibbs.
And while he is quick to stress he would prefer his opportunity to have come under different circumstances, Townsend is keen to show what he can do.
"I’ve been patient for the best part of 18 months now," he said.
“I have always been waiting for my chance and this is obviously an opportunity for me.
“It’s a shame for Nathan because he’s been brilliant when he’s been in the team, and obviously Gibbo is still injured.
"It is a chance for me and hopefully I can take it, kick on and prove that I’m the one that should play there."
Asked whether he feels more settled now, Townsend added: “I think that’s probably true.
"When I first came here I was new to the league. I had played a lot of games at lower league level but it’s different when you step up.
“But I’m confident in my own ability. I know I’m good enough to be in this team, especially with us fighting at the top end of the table.
"I just want to keep doing that and keep proving that."
Hull-born Townsend joined his hometown club at the age of eight and rose through the Academy ranks on Humberside, making a single League Cup appearance for the Tigers.
And as he prepares to return to the KCOM Stadium this weekend, the 26-year-old is looking to build upon Albion's midweek victory against the Potters, which secured only a third clean sheet of the campaign, and help maintain top spot in the table.
“It’s very cliche but we’re all looking at taking it one game at a time and not worrying about what other teams are doing," said Conor.
“If we keep winning and keep performing like that then hopefully we can kick on and open up a lead.
“That’s got to be the aim for us. That’s what we’re trying to do, so if we put in performances every week then chances are you get the result that comes with it."
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