James Morrison has challenged Ousmane Diakite to reach the next level to Albion - as well as add goals to his game.

Midfield powerhouse Diakite has been one of the in-form Baggies’ standout performances in a hugely impressive start to the Championship season.

The Malian, 25, is approaching two-and-a-half years at The Hawthorns after his 2024 arrival as owners Bilkul’s first major transfer - albeit as a free agent.

It took Diakite more than a year to find his feet in English football but for much of the 2026 the midfielder has been one of the first names on Albion’s teamsheet, and Morrison believes the Albion star is headed for the top.

"If he keeps performing like that then he's definitely a Premier League player - with us!” Morrison smiled when asked about Diakite receiving rave reviews.”

Albion’s former midfield star-turned-boss added: "But I'd seen his attributes, his physicality, size, and also think he can do what he does with the ball.

"He's got to remain focused on consistency with that, keep working hard, he's a great lad.

"He's vital to the team, because he can do everything.

"I even think he can make the box and head some in. But he's so important.”

Goals are the only ingredient lacking from the former RB Saltsburg prospect. He has registered just once for Albion, a Boxing Day consolation last year, from 80 appearances.

Diakite is an extremely popular member of Albion’s dressing room and loved for his constant smile and reserved and humble attitude.

A recent club interview underlined as much. Morrison said: "He is (very humble). I worked with him closely last season, with the midfield players.

"He would always speak. He always wants more. I still think he can brush up on a couple of things, his body shape when receiving the ball, or he wouldn't have to hold people off!

"But he's always humble, smiling. So I'm really pleased he's getting the rewards for his work.”

Diakite’s interview drew a response from another much-loved African Baggie - Youssouf Mulumbu - who spent six successful years at The Hawthorns from 2009. Mulumbu commented online “Reminds me of someone”, to which ex-team-mate Morrison said: "Just double the size!"

The head coach added of Diakite: “He found his rhythm of playing, settled in, but also - I had the belief in him."