Boss considering Vela switch

20 April 2011 16:24
Mexican in line to start after Chelsea cameo Carlos Vela could make his second Baggies start after impressing as a substitute against Chelsea. Albion No.2 Michael Appleton says that Vela’s 17-minute appearance against the Blues caught the eye of Albion’s coaching staff and he may have played his way into Roy Hodgson’s thoughts for Spurs on Saturday (KO 3pm). The Mexican has only started once since his arrival in January from Arsenal. But the hot-shot striker has impressed in training during his time at The Hawthorns and has looked sharp as a substitute firing late equalizers against Wolves and Stoke. "We were delighted with Carlos' contribution on Saturday," said Appleton. "He looks very sharp in training and is a player who can play in two or three different positions. "Tottenham is going to be a slightly different test to Chelsea, albeit they are a team who like to have a lot of possession. "So when we do win back the ball, I'd like to think we can be a little more clever than we were in the first half against Chelsea - and Carlos comes into that category. "I'm sure he will be in the gaffer's thoughts quite heavily after his appearance on Saturday. "He has made an impact when he's come on as a sub and I suppose when you have that ready to come on at any time, it's a bonus for anybody. "He has scored a couple of goals and saved us in a couple of games as a sub. "If he gets an opportunity from the start of a game, I'm sure it will be positive from the team's point of view, because the qualities he's got technically are as good as anyone's. "He is a Mexican international and has come from Arsenal, so we're very aware of his talents. "If he gets an opportunity to start on Saturday, I'm sure he'll flourish." Does Vela deserve to start on against Spurs? Have your say at Baggies Banter here.

Source: FOOTYMAD