Semi Ajayi features as the headline act in the latest edition of Albion News as we look through his hectic career which included a two-year stint with Saturday's visitors, Arsenal.
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The Nigerian defender talks us through how beneficial loans in the lower tiers of English football have helped him, not just in accelerating his club career, but also in establishing himself as an international for his country.
Ajayi offers an honest assessment of his career path, including the invaluable experience of working under Arsene Wenger, why he had to leave a successful Charlton youth setup and how the chances he took were rewarded with promotion to the Premier League with Albion.
Academy boss Richard Stevens and U23s manager Deon Burton highlight the progress of some of Albion’s youngsters coming through, as well as the potential for more loan experiences in the Football League during January.
We also carry on our regular feature slots:
- Looking at the development of the Baggies' home as we celebrate 120 years of The Hawthorns
- 'The Hawthorns' Greatest Games' travels back to an arctic day in 1979 and a home win over Bristol City
- With one of Albion's iconic strips returning this term, 'Kitstory' this issue looks back at the Autoglass Trophy
- Part Nine of 'The Impossible Dream' returns, 90 years on from a famous season in the history of the club
- An in-depth look at the visitors Arsenal, including insight from the Athletic's Arsenal writer.
- 'Memory Match' heads back to a 2-0 home victory over the Gunners from the 1953/54 season
- Supporters Club Chairman John Homer looks ahead to our FA Cup Third Round tie with Blackpool by recalling some of our previous meetings with the Seasiders
- 'Programmes of the Past' looks back at Albion News from 1937 and 1973
- Mike Buckland is next up in our Supporters' Stories series, and ultimately selects 'The Great Escape' as his standout memory
You can access the lowdown from behind the scenes by getting your copy, here.