James Morrison hopes Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku can extend West Brom loan

The on-loam forward has been in sensational form

West Bromwich Albion's Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku (C) runs to celebrate after scoring (Getty Images)

West Brom midfielder James Morrison has pinpointed the contribution of on-loan Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku as key to their current success and hopes he can return to the Hawthorns next season.

Lukaku scored his 13th goal of the campaign during Saturday's 2-1 home success over Swansea to keep alive their hopes of securing a European spot.

Morrison knows the 19-year-old will leave a big hole to fill should he be recalled by the Blues next season.

The Scotland international said: "Romelu's goals are one of the reasons we are where we are. Hopefully the club can get the deal sorted (for next season).

"He is a pleasure to have and I think he will be even better next season.

"Will he benefit from another season at West Brom? Definitely. You think how young he is for such a big unit.

"He's got a lot of hard work to go but I'm sure he is going to be a top player. I'm sure Chelsea are going to develop him.

"He is big and strong and scores goals and is quick and powerful. He is a handful for anyone."

Morrison also believes Albion will need to strengthen their squad if they qualify for Europe.

He said: "We will need some players in if we are going to (play in Europe).

"You saw what we were like in December and January when we couldn't pick a win up (through players missing).

"Probably the manager will realise that and hopefully we can get there and build a squad for it."

PA