West Brom blog: Have faith in Salomon Rondon

Now, I’ll be the first to admit that Rondon has not been good enough for a while and some supporters have been clear in voicing their criticism, writes West Brom blogger Nathan Carr.

He’s only started two games in the league this campaign, but I still believe that the Venezuelan is a valuable member of the team.

His poor displays appear to be a result of a lack of confidence. Indeed, it was reported earlier this year that the 28-year-old was suffering from something in his personal life.

What’s more, the point has been well made about the player’s tiredness, particularly after returning from international duty with Venezuela.

I do think we have overworked him on occasions, forcing him to hopelessly chase loose balls which have wasted his energy.

He did well to reach double figures (10) in his first season at the club – in a largely defensive side bereft of attacking quality – and his 2016/17 tally of eight goals, including that wonderful headed hat-trick against Swansea City, wasn’t a woeful return although of course could have been better.

What I’d like to see is Rondon put his strengths to use on a more regular basis.

He’s got all the physical attributes needed to be a real handful for defenders. He should be bullying them with his strength and power.

He’s certainly been guilty of spurning clear chances at times, both at the Hawthorns and away from home. Yet he needs service. And better service.

At Zenit, he had the likes of Hulk and Danny feeding him balls. At Malaga, he had the likes of Isco and Santi Cazorla doing it.

I think there could be potential in a partnership between Rondon and Jay Rodriguez, with Rondon playing that back-to-goal target man role and Rodriguez using his pace and energy to run in behind.

I continue to have faith in Rondon and feel he can turn his form around. It’s about confidence and consistency.

After all, he has all the natural attributes to be a real success at West Bromwich Albion.