Todd Miller is hoping to continue his goalscoring run of form when West Ham visit the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre today, kick-off 4pm.
The 20-year-old winger has scored in his last two outings for Shannon Ruth’s side, putting Albion ahead against Gillingham in the Papa Johns Trophy before earning his team a point against Manchester United in Premier League 2 a fortnight ago.
Miller believes his stats could look even more impressive if it wasn’t for the infamous dubious goals panel, but he is enjoying his current hot-streak.
“People keep saying I’ve scored two in my last two, but it should be three in three! I had a shot deflected in against Spurs that I think could have been my goal,” said Miller.
“Goals are a really nice bonus for me right now. I’m trying to be a threat and get in the box more often, and feel like I’m playing well and helping the team.
“As a squad we are in a really good place and we’re scoring a lot. We’ve conceded a few as well so we’ve been working hard on the defensive side of our game, but we’re feeling positive.”
Albion’s openness was on show two weeks ago in the thrilling 3-3 draw at United, a game in which Ruth’s team both led and trailed.
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Since then, Albion haven’t played a PL2 fixture, meaning they’ve had more time to iron out any shortcomings at the back and get ready for a busy period of matches.
Miller said, “The little break has been good. It’s given us some time to work on a few things, prepare well for West Ham and get ready for some other challenges ahead.
“We’ve got a busy run coming up so it’s been nice to have a chance to try some new systems and concepts in training. We’re a close-knit squad so training is always good and we all work really hard for each other.
“We’re looking forward to putting that work to the test against West Ham.”
The Hammers are currently bottom of PL2 and winless this season, but Miller knows the East London side well and is aware of the threat they pose.
“I always love playing West Ham.” said the winger. “Last year I got a goal and an assist away and two assists in the home game, and I always seem to end up doing well against them.
“But we all know it’s going to be another difficult match. I know a couple of the boys there pretty well and they’re good players, so I’m excited for it – it should be a good one.
“Another goal would be nice but as long as we can get the three points and keep that clean sheet we’ve been working for, I’ll be really happy.”