A TNS youngster has traded Park Hall for the Hawthorns after signing for West Bromwich Albion at just eight years old.

Telford-based Benaiah Tenkorang-Agyekum turned out for The New Saints’ Category A Academy during the 2023/24 season, and after putting in impressive performances week after week, the forward has been rewarded with a move to the Hawthorns. 

During his time at Park Hall, the talented youngster became known for his ability to outplay players with quick-thinking and fast feet, while his keen eye in front of goal also didn’t go unnoticed. 

Benaiah becomes the second Academy player in less than 12 months to make the switch from The Saints to the Baggies, following in the footsteps of Milo Ellington last September. 

Academy coaches, Ash Russell and Andy Hickman, paid tribute following his departure:

Hickman said: “Benaiah was a shy lad when he first joined to the club, but he quickly found his confidence and was a joy to coach.

“He has both tremendous strength and power as a player, and is always running with the ball, scaring defenders and showing clinical finishing.

“He built up a great rapport with his teammates and coaches, and we wish you all the best for the future, Benaiah."

Russell added: "“Benaiah is a very quiet and calm boy, who definitely lets his football do the talking. When he first came in, we realised that he can be a very quiet and reserved character, however, throughout the season we saw more and more of his funny and excitable personality, along with him being an extremely talented footballer.

“On the pitch, Benaiah is a powerhouse, and his ability to outplay players with quick thinking, fast feet and 1v1 moves has been excellent. He’s also a fantastic finisher, but we feel he can definitely still work on his celebrations!

“We’ve been delighted to see the development in terms of self-confidence this season, as I think he’s realised how good he can be! It’s been great to work with Benaiah this season, and get to know both him and his family. We’re all incredibly proud of him for his move to West Brom and we wish him every success."

Russell said it was the club's pleasure to develop talent for a higher level.

“In general, it’s great for us to see our committed and talented players reaching new heights and moving to CAT-1 clubs in England," he said. "I personally feel this shows the level of our academy and how we’ve progressed in terms of the Category-A programme we have here at TNS.

"Having seen two players progress into CAT-1s in the past 12 months, it shows that the future here at TNS is a bright one.”