Adam Lallana says the opportunity to be part of a young squad at Albion was one of the reasons he joined the club.
The 32-year-old has been impressed with players such as Steven Alzate, Tariq Lamptey and Aaron Connolly who are trying to make a name for themselves in the Premier League, but says their development must happen naturally and not be forced.
He said, “It’s important that we don’t put too much pressure on the young lads that we’ve got here. Lots of them are playing in the early stages of their careers in the Premier League.
“We mustn’t rush them or set standards that are too high for them to reach. It’s a team game and we can improve together.
“I knew before coming here, having done my research on the club, that the average age [of the squad] is young and that was part of the attraction. I’ve been absolutely delighted with how I’ve settled into the group.”
The former Liverpool man is still getting to know his team-mates and says building relationships in a new environment takes time.
“Using past experiences isn’t something you can teach or learn. It’s a process and it’s about trust. I’m new to a lot of players in the dressing room so it’s important that they get to know me on a personal level as we build relationships with one another.
“Then if we do chat and players want to ask me questions about players or certain people in the game then of course I’ll share that information because I’m lucky enough to have played at the top and had success.
“That doesn’t mean I’m not here to improve as well. I can learn from the young lads because they play without any fear. When you get to my age you can sometimes hear noises in your head that are challenging yourself every day.
“It’s refreshing to be in another dressing room with new people. The lads have been great and made me feel very comfortable.”