West Bromwich Albion manager Pepe Mel has praised Thievy Bifouma for his ability and mentality ahead of his debut for the club.

Bifouma, who joined on loan from Espanyol in January, could make his first appearance for the Baggies on Saturday against Crystal Palace and Mel believes that the forward is ready to impress in the Premier League.

"He's quick and scores goals. He's dangerous in the box. He wants to be a player. He wants to improve and learn. In Spain, he played well in the First Division," Mel told journalists in his pre-match press conference.

"The club explained to me that it was possible to only bring in one player and I chose Thievy.

"He's a different player. He's funny, quick, happy. When he's on the pitch he's always thinking. And new ideas are always coming to him."

Mel will be hoping Bifouma can help him earn his first win as West Brom manager at Selhurst Park.