KYLE Edwards was bursting with pride after making his Albion debut against Luton Town.
The 20-year-old was a half-time substitute at The Hawthorns in the Carabao Cup Round One tie, joining fellow Academy graduates Sam Field, Jonathan Leko and Rekeem Harper in the blue-and-white stripes.
For a boy who joined the Albion family at the age of six, it was a "special night".
"It's good to get my first game," said Kyle.
"I've been around the First Team for a while now so it's a nice feeling.
"I've been here so many years and seen my friends come through and get their debuts.
"I'm really proud of myself for what I've achieved.
"It was a special night."
No wonder the Dudley-born forward was all smiles. He's had to do things the hard way.
Kyle added: "I've had a couple of injuries, one nine months and one four months.
"I've managed to come back each time so I'm happy.
"Last year's loan at Exeter helped me out a lot and I'm thankful to them.
"It was my first taste of real football.
"My target now is to force my way into the team.
"I'll keep showing what I can do from the bench. But ultimately I want to get that starting position."