Samuel Iling-Junior believes his move to West Bromwich Albion presents the perfect opportunity for him to showcase his “quality” and “versatility”.
The England Under-21 international has joined the club on a season-long loan from Aston Villa, becoming the Baggies’ eighth summer signing.
Iling-Junior arrives at The Hawthorns having represented both Juventus and Bologna in the UEFA Champions League during his time in Italy, and Middlesbrough in the second half of the 2024/25 Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Sam says his experience with Boro in the second tier of English football was a really beneficial one and hopes to showcase his best level for the Albion in the same division this year.
The new recruit said: “I think this is an important move. I’ve spoken to the manager and we’re aligned on where we want to be and that’s really helpful.
“I want to get playing and I’m really excited to be here. When speaking with Ryan Mason, we spoke a lot about my best attributes which are dribbling, utilising my pace and creating opportunities for the team and adding a few goals myself. We also spoke about me enjoying myself, so we’ve had positive conversations.
“The interest has been there since the start of the window. That’s something that you think about as a player, the fact that teams want you and they’re really keen on you.
“It’s a really good opportunity for me and I’m determined to give it my all.
“I really enjoyed the experience of playing at Middlesbrough on loan last season. The Championship is a difficult league and there are plenty of players in this league with quality. I want to be one of the players in this league who shows their quality.
“I think not having to relocate definitely plays a part in helping players settle quicker when they sign at a new club. I’m someone who has travelled a bit, obviously moving up to the area from London, going over to Italy and then I’ve been up north too.
“I’m always prepared for anything. The most important thing for any player is to be playing, enjoying your football and to have fun.
“As a player, being versatile has always given me opportunities. I’ve never been limited. It’s clear that I want to tie down one position, whether that be at left back or as a winger, but I’m always available in those positions and I know I have to perform at the highest level in those positions. I’d say my preferred position would be wing back.
“I want to help the team push as far as we can this season. On a personal note, I want to show my ability and contribute with as many goals and assists as I can.”
