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This article is part of Football FanCast's In The Pipeline series, which takes a look at some of the most promising young talent either linked with clubs or emerging from their academies...

After Slaven Bilic joined the club as manager in the summer, there was a glimmer of optimism that the club may utilise its promising youth academy more often.

Within a month, one of their prospects Louie Barry was poached by Barcelona, which left a bitter taste to the mouth whilst Morgan Rogers also left for Manchester City.

But then when the season started, both Kyle Edwards and Nathan Ferguson were handed starts – live on TV against Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest.

Some way to begin and make up for those who have gone.

Both have more than played their part already this season, making five or more Championship appearances, per WhoScored.

Players like Sam Field and Jonathan Leko have gone elsewhere to develop this season, but if they perform well enough then that recall clause will become rather handy.

Then there is Rekeem Harper, who appears to be in limbo as he remains at the club, but is yet to feature for longer than six minutes.

Having signed three wingers on deadline day, on top of Matt Phillips and Edwards, you’d think any young winger at the club has little-to-no chance of transitioning into the first-team setup.

Though, Grady Diangana has only joined on loan and is able to be recalled in January, which is certainly a possibility should his performances continue – he's scored three goals in just two starts, per WhoScored.

So it may be wise to dip into the academy - step forward Nick Clayton-Richards.

The young winger has had a taste in the men’s game whilst on loan at Kidderminster Harriers in a league that provides a physical test.

He’s also very versatile, being able to play anywhere in midfield and has frequently garnered goals and assists.

The 19-year-old netted seven goals in 17 appearances for the Under-18s before continuing that trend for the Under-23s, where he has scored and assisted four – including one strike already this season.

West Brom’s wing position is the most hotly contested area of the pitch, but long-term they may well have the answer right under their nose.

Considering Rogers' and Barry's exits, Clayton-Richards is someone who might well be able to make up for it.

For now, the focus in a wide position is on Diangana, but it may not be too long before it's on one of Albion's younger faces.

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