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FLW's West Brom fan pundit believes that Harry Whitwell would benefit from a lower league loan move

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk‘ series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

With nothing to play for on the final day of the 2024/25 season, West Bromwich Albion played in a more relaxed style as they put five past Luton Town in an eight-goal thriller.

Amongst all that, a full league debut was given to Harry Whitwell, who came on with 12 minutes to spare.

The 19-year-old central midfielder impressed throughout the campaign in the West Brom U21's, playing and scoring regularly in the Premier League 2 as well as in the Premier League Cup.

But clearly, Whitwell is ready for some regular senior football, and despite appearing in a host of matchday squads last season, the likelihood is that the Baggies won't be able to offer him the game time he needs in their side this season.

Therefore, FLW's West Brom fan pundit, Callum Burgess, believes that a loan move from The Hawthorns will be necessary, as Whitwell aims to return to the fold as a key member of Ryan Mason's squad in the future.

West Brom fan pundit gives verdict on potential loan moves

"I think that Harry Whitwell will benefit from a loan out this season after making his first league appearance for Albion in the last game of last season against Luton," Burgess told Football League World.

Competition in the midfield areas is large at The Hawthorns, with the likes of Isaac Price, Alex Mowatt, and Tammer Bany competing for the more attacking midfield role, and it's clear that the inexperienced Whitwell won't be able to dislodge those from the starting eleven this season.

"He has competition for places with the likes of Price and Bany, and even though we've lost Grady Diangana and John Swift in those areas this summer, it's unlikely that we'll target another midfielder," Burgess continued.

"I think a move to a League Two side would be really good for his development.

"It would give him first-team football for a year, rather than playing in the Premier League 2 and the odd substitute minutes every now and then.

"So getting some senior minutes under the belt will be very beneficial for him."

Harry Whitwell's next step should be in regular senior football

Despite playing predominantly in a midfield role, Harry Whitwell managed to notch eight goals and add another five assists in all competitions for West Brom's U21's this past season.

Additionally, the 19-year-old captained the side on one occasion, against Everton in March.

It's evident that Whitwell needs a step-up, so if the competition at West Brom is too large, and if the youngster isn't fully ready to compete in a play-off-challenging Championship side, a loan move further down the pyramid most definitely is the right choice for his development.

If pure senior football experience is what's required from this loan, a move to a League Two side may be ideal, as Whitwell will be able to show more class in a weaker league, positioning himself well for a Baggies return at the end of the season.