Harry Whitwell says he’s “over the moon” to have made his Albion league debut and has set his sights on pushing towards a place in the first team next season.
The academy graduate was introduced in the 78th minute of an entertaining 5-3 final day win over Luton Town, gaining his first taste of Sky Bet Championship action.
It’s a moment midfielder Whitwell waited more than a decade for, and during a post-match chat with WBA TV, he outlined his desire to break into the senior squad permanently.
“I’m over the moon,” said Harry. “Especially to end the season like that, it’s a great feeling.
“After all the hard work over the last 10 years - I’ve been in the academy since I was 12 - it’s a good day. I’m happy.
“I was always hoping the moment would come. Today, for it to happen, I’m over the moon.
“He (James Morrison) wanted to win the game so was very much focused on the job at hand - and it’s a bonus he put me on. I’m very thankful for that.
“I was warming up in a bit of hope. Then Grady (Diangana) came and told me to be ready in the next five minutes or so. That’s when I realised it was happening.
“At the end of the day, I was happy with how I played. I felt like my touches were good. I should have had a shot though, when I won the ball off their midfielder, but next time hopefully.
“I thought the defender was going to come to me, but as soon as I played it, he moved out - so I probably could have gone through the middle. But hopefully there will be more chances to come.
“As soon as the final whistle went, I felt hungry for more. Just playing in front of all the fans today was amazing, I even heard a little chant with my name in!
“Stuff like that, I want more and more. I’ll keep trying to perfect my game as much as possible, and then kick on next season.”
