YOUNG Albion starlet Louie Barry has returned from a prestigious UEFA tournament with the golden boot.
The 15-year-old striker netted three goals to help England Under-16s lift the Val-de-Marne - beating Austria 4-2, Japan 3-1, and hosts France 3-1, in the process.
“It was the best experience I’ve had in football and one that I’ll remember for a long time,” said the Bishop Walsh Catholic School pupil.
“I’ve been lucky enough to have had other great experiences but as this was a UEFA tournament it’s my proudest moment so far.
“I know there is a lot of hard work to come but I’m really enjoying my football at the moment.”
Academy Manager Mark Harrison admits the teenager is a rising star who Albion hope to mentor on to a successful career at The Hawthorns.
“Louie is a player of great promise and his impressive form at Val-de-Marne is testimony to that,” he said.
“He knows there is a long road ahead with lots of hard work to be done, but if he remains focussed on his ultimate goal then he has more than enough ability.
“Louie is one of a number of young Academy players who have represented England in recent weeks and we remain immensely proud of their achievements.
“It is the result of years of hard work from players and their coaches.”