Carlos Corberan has urged Reyes Cleary of Albion to continue developing upon his return from injury and strive to secure a place in the senior team. Cleary, a 19-year-old forward, has displayed impressive goal-scoring prowess in the Baggies’ youth ranks, notching 34 goals in 26 league games over the past couple of seasons.
Despite a recent six-month absence due to a hamstring injury, Cleary returned to the squad and was on the bench as Corberan’s team triumphed over Coventry at the end of the previous month. Corberan emphasized that any academy player performing well would be considered, but opportunities must be earned.
Following a 45-minute appearance in an under-21s friendly and inclusion in the first-team squad, Corberan stressed the need for Cleary to regain his form after the extended injury layoff. Although Cleary made the bench against Coventry, Corberan emphasized that such decisions are made based on a player’s readiness compared to others.
Cleary recently marked only his second start for the under-21s since returning from injury, scoring a double, including a stunning long-range shot, against Reading. Corberan pointed to Tom Fellows as an example for Cleary to follow, highlighting Fellows’ progression from training with the first team to becoming a regular squad member due to consistent performance on and off the pitch.
Corberan acknowledged Cleary’s potential and encouraged him to keep growing and seizing opportunities for further advancement.