West Bromwich Albion manager Roy Hodgson feels that striker Shane Long could prove to be the 'bargain of the year'.
The Baggies purchased the Republic of Ireland international for around £4.5million from Reading in the summer and he has already struck three times this season, including goals against Manchester United and Chelsea.
Hodgson knows it is a long way until Long can be labeled a quality Premier League player but is confident he will continue to contribute the way he has already done for the West Midlands club.
"Shane came from Ireland where he was hurling at the age of 17. He's started very late and is still new to the game," Hodgson said.
"I think, in three years time, when he's played lots of games, then I'm sure a decision will be formed on whether he is a top Premier League performer or not.
"We didn't pay much for him at all. It was, in my opinion, potentially the bargain of the year."
