West Bromwich Albion caretaker boss Keith Downing has said that Matej Vyrda may make his first Premier League start in the Boxing Day clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
The Czech international striker, who is at The Hawthorns on a season-long loan from Serie A side Udinese, scored his first Baggies goal on Saturday, coming off the bench to net the equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Hull City.
Injuries had previously prevented Vydra from playing a substantial role for Albion, having made seven top-flight substitute appearances so far this term, but Downing, who is in temporary charge following Steve Clarke's sacking, has suggested that the rejuvenated striker could feature from the off at White Hart Lane.
Downing told reporters: "I'm pleased for Matej Vydra because he's been here a while and people have forgotten him a little bit. I'm pleased because he's a good type, a good professional who works hard at his game.
"He's in a good vein of form at the moment. He's come on and scored the goal, made some impact in previous games. When someone scores a goal their confidence is high so you've got to consider him for a start at Spurs."
Vydra, 21, scored 20 Championship goals in a successful loan spell at Watford last term.
Joe Fish
