Brighton and Hove Albion full-back Tariq Lamptey admitted he was up against a “top player” in West Bromwich Albion winger Grady Diangana on Monday night, speaking to the Seagulls’ official website.
We all know about the dangers Brighton’s former Chelsea flyer poses in the final third.
Few full-backs in the Premier League can match Lamptey when it comes to raw pace and that all-too rare ability to put the ball on a sixpence with one swing of his lethal right boot.
But the 20-year-old sensation showed another side of his game during last night’s 1-1 draw with West Brom at the Amex, keeping £18 million Diangana at arms’ length during a fine defensive display.
“I don’t mind where I play. I just want to do a job for the team. I was up against Grady Diangana, who is a top player,” Lamptey said at full-time.
“That’s the same every week in the Premier League. You have to keep learning and keep improving. That’s my job.”
Improving is certainly what Lamptey is doing.
One of the bargain signings in recent years, the £3 million man will be challenging Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker and Trent Alexander-Arnold for a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad if he continues to develop at such a rapid rate.
West Brom, meanwhile, are winless in their first six games following last season’s promotion. And, with just one goal and no assists so far, Diangana has yet to live up to his £18 million price tag.
Can he replicate his dazzling Championship performances at a higher level? The jury remains out – but Baggies fans will certainly hope so.
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