Kaoru Mitoma is expected to be at full power for the season-opener at Everton.
But he is not there yet, according to his head coach.
Fabian Huerzeler has been delighted with the Japan winger as he returns from a five-month absence.
Like most players, Mitoma again had 45 minutes of playing time as Albion beat Tokyo Verdy 4-2.
Huerzeler said: “I think that he's not already 100%, but he made now two very good games and he was training every game.
“The training, he was there, so I think he tries to improve his physical condition.
“And, on the pitch, we see also today that he has unbelievable skills.
“We still have three weeks to go, so I think it will be improved day by day.
“I'm convinced and I'm sure that he will be 100% when the season will start.”
Mitoma brought delighted gasps from the fans with a bit of trickery to leave his marker flailing close to the touchline.
They cheered the moment again when it was replayed on the big screens.
And they cheered even louder when an image of the national team coach Hajime Moriyasu, who was at the game, was then shown.
J
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