Post by dannyooi on Dec 30, 2013 0:46:31 GMT -8
Albion youngster Saido Berahino today hailed Nicolas Anelka’s impact on his Premier League breakthrough as the Frenchman awaited the FA’s verdict on his controversial goal celebration.
West Bromwich Albion's Saido Berahino performs a back heel under pressure from West Ham United's Joey O'Brien
Berahino revealed how Anelka’s advice is helping him adapt to first-team football after the 20-year-old bagged his third Premier League goal in Saturday’s 3-3 draw at West Ham.
Anelka netted twice at Upton Park but the FA were today investigating his ‘quenelle’ gesture after his first Baggies goal – a celebration that saw him accused of anti-Semitism by France’s minister for sport.
Anelka denied the claims but admitted the celebration was a tribute to controversial French comedian Dieudonne, who has been linked to anti-Semitism.
Berahino said: “He’s been great. He’s passed on a lot of experience to me, Victor Anichebe and Matej Vydra as well.
“He talks to me all the time about different movement and finish, and it’s not just him – Shane Long gives me advice as well, which is great.
“All Nico’s advice has been brilliant for me, and watching him in training he has good movement as well.
“He always thinks ahead and he’s good at what he does.
“His movement for his first goal was brilliant, and he came inside and finished it so calmly.
“He’s a good guy and a great footballer as well.”
Berahino was handed a first start in his preferred centre forward position and responded with his side’s equaliser to make it 3-3 at West Ham, and he admitted he has been anxious for a chance.
“I have been frustrated, but you’ve just got to wait for your chance and take it,” he said.
“To be fair to Keith, he said he was going to rotate the squad around and I have been waiting patiently.
“I got the call on Saturday and everything went well, so I’m just proud.
“Our team spirit is high and we’re sticking together as a unit to come through this tough period.
“And we’re not just doing it for us, we’re doing it for the fans and the club.”
