Tony Pulis does not have the best track record when it comes to flair based attacking players, but the acquisition of Pritchard could be a sign that Pulis has accepted the need for some creativity in his West Brom side.
The Baggies, as with all Pulis teams, have had a season of meeting the bare requirements and sit cosily in mid-table alongside other clubs whose fans are wondering why they have not shown greater ambition to push on for a top half finish in this bizarre season.
A loan signing in January can often be a good way to avoid the longer-term risk of signing a player on a permanent deal and it is hard to see how the Baggies can lose out from bringing in a promising youngster on a short loan.
Pulis, who can’t see to make his mind up about Berahino, could be about to make Pritchard’s career, or, more likely, ruin it.
Here are FIVE things you didn’t know about the Spurs youngster..
Next Gen grad
Pritchard initially impressed at Tottenham as part of the briefly successful Next Gen series.
This was the youngster’s first taste of football on a European level and he caught the eye of many.
Diminutive wide man..
Pritchard stands at only 171 centimetres tall and doesn’t quite fit in with the big powerful narrative associated with Pulis’ sides.
He’s no Jonathan Walters, but Pritchard makes up for his lack of power with close control and pace.
Anti-Pulis
Pulis loves a big, strong man (not like that), but Pritchard doesn’t fit the usual fetish of the ex-Stoke boss.
The Spurs winger is more likely to be seen in a Pep Guardiola side than Pulis’ and it is an odd choice of loan move for both the player and Spurs.
Square peg, square hole
Versatility is key for the managers with smaller squads and Pritchard can play on either wing comfortably.
Pulis will need to play him occasionally, we would hope, at least.
England man
Pritchard has represented England at both U20 and U21 levels.
