Steve Clarke tips Romelu Lukaku for "big future"

West Bromwich Albion boss Steve Clarke has backed striker Romelu Lukaku to have a "big future" in football.

Lukaku scored a late winner in the Baggies' 2-1 win over Norwich City this afternoon, having made a rare appearance in the starting lineup.

However, Clarke insisted that Lukaku's small amount of starts was more down to Shane Long's good form than any lack of ability on the Belgian's part.

"Romelu has done well, he is a big talent, he has got a big future ahead of him in the game," said Clarke.

"The fact he couldn't get in the team for most of the season is down to the form of Shane Long, who shouldn't be forgotten today. Shane made a difference when he came onto the pitch, he tied up the other centre-back, has given a bit more space to Romelu, and maybe that's why he has got the space for the winning goal.

"It's a team effort and we don't like to single out individuals."

The result brought an end to West Brom's four-match winless streak, as well as inflicting a first league defeat on Norwich in 10 matches.