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Mark Harrison believes West Bromwich Albion were able to fend off interest in prodigious talent Jonathan Leko because of the special relationship the club forges with its next generation.

The country's biggest clubs reportedly enquired about taking Leko out of Albion's academy and into their own.

But the 16-year-old attacker resisted temptation and is beginning to reap the rewards having played in Albion's last two Premier League matches.

"When he was 15 a lot of big clubs were interested in him," said Harrison, Albion's academy manager.

"I think he stayed with us because of the relationship the academy built with him.

"That was a key issue.

"Jon could see the time being invested in him but he could also see a pathway to the first team.

"He was only 15 when he was playing for the Under 21s so we've given him that pathway.

"Little things like picking him up early in the morning so he could get to away matches.

"For us it's about nurturing support and relationships."

Leko made an instant impression after he was introduced as an 81st minute substitute at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

The nippy youngster showed big confidence and little fear as he set off on a couple of mazy runs that were only halted when he was crowded out as City sought to protect their slender 2-1 lead.

"We might not have the millions like Manchester City, but we'll invest the time in these kids," Harrison added.

"We had a staff meeting last week where we all said how proud we were of Jon.

"We were fortunate enough to support him and help him fulfil his potential.

"But he's got to see it through and keep progressing."

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