Wednesday 31st May 2006

Hartson reveals shock at Baggies’ bid

Celtic striker John Hartson has spoken of his shock after learning that the Scottish giants have accepted a £500,000 bid from Albion for his services.

Hartson had been expecting to remain with Celtic for the upcoming season, and has revealed he was even considering extending his contract with the club.

"I'm shocked and disappointed," Hartson told the Daily Record.

"I had no intention or desire to leave the club this summer and I would like the fans to know that. I've had things to resolve in my private life but I felt I had sorted everything out.

"I've retired from international football to give me more time to see my kids and I was totally focused on going back to Celtic and trying to help the club reclaim the title and make a real push in the Champions League.

"I love the club so much, in fact, that I'd spoken to friends recently about staying on for another year and ending my career in Glasgow. But now this, it has knocked me for six. 

"All I can do is discuss with my agent what happens next and I'll do that in the coming days.

"But right now I need some time to digest what has just happened, it has come as a bombshell."

Tuesday 30th May 2006

Gera on Old Trafford duty

Albion midfielder Zoltan Gera plays the full 90 minutes of his country’s 3-1 friendly defeat against England at Old Trafford.

Steven Gerrard and John Terry gave England a 2-0 lead before Pal Dardai pulled a goal back for Hungary. Liverpool’s Peter Crouch added a late third for England.

Monday 29th May 2006

Gera to stay?

Albion midfielder Zoltan Gera has revealed that he expects to still be at the club next season despite rumours linking him with a move back to the Premiership.

It has been feared the Hungarian international may seek to leave the Hawthorns following the club’s drop into the Championship.

"I have a contract with West Brom for one more year and I start training with West Brom soon," Gera told Sky Sports News.

"Yeah I think so I will stay.

"After this season I spoke with the manager and he said he wants all the players to stay at West Brom and we want to go up again to the Premier League."

Wigan Athletic last week saw a £1.75million bid for Gera turned down whilst Bolton, Aston Villa and Everton are all also believed to be keen on the player who is currently on international duty preparing for Hungary's friendly with England on Tuesday.

Friday 26th May 2006

Pearson set to depart?

Albion assistant manager Nigel Pearson is in talks with Ipswich Town over the vacant manager’s post at Portman Road.

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson has confirmed that Pearson is to have talks with Ipswich and that he would not stand in his way should he be offered the post made vacant by Joe Royle's departure at the end of the season.

"We have reluctantly given Nigel permission to speak to Ipswich," said Robson.

"He is an important part of my staff and we don't want to lose him. But Nigel would like the chance to be a manager in his own right and this is a very good opportunity for him."

"I don't want to stand in Nigel's way."

Thursday 25th May 2006

Baggies to face Scottish duo

Albion announce that they will play two games against Scottish Premier League opposition as part of the club’s pre-season preparations.

Bryan Robson’s men will face Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Thursday, July 20 (kick-off 7.45pm), before meeting Motherwell at Fir Park on Sunday, July 23 (kick-off 3pm).

Robson, speaking about the planned games north of the border said: "I think we are best served facing opposition who play a similar style to what we will face week in, week out next season. These games should be very competitive. The teams we're up against will give us a real test.

"The matches will also give us an opportunity to see where we're at in terms of preparation for the new season."

The club are also considering playing a third friendly on the tour but a fixture has yet to be confirmed.

Smikle released

Albion announce that they will not be renewing young midfielder Brian Smikle's contract when it expires at the end of June.

The 20-year-old progressed through the club’s youth system and signed professional forms last summer but failed to make a single competitive appearance for the first team.

Despite impressing in reserve team football Smikle failed to break into the first-team squad during the club’s ill-fated Premiership campaign.

In February, he joined Nationwide Conference side Halifax Town on loan for the final three months of the season, helping them reach the play-off final where they lost 3-2 to Hereford United after extra-time.

Greening linked with Pompey move

Albion midfielder Jonathan Greening is linked with a £2million move to Premiership side Portsmouth.

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp is said to be ready to make a move for the 27-year-old former Manchester United and Middlesbrough star if he fails to land his rumoured first choice target, Aston Villa's Lee Hendrie.

Wednesday 24th May 2006

Albion dismiss Spurs’ Davies bid

Albion turn down a reported £3.5million bid from Tottenham Hotspur for young defender Curtis Davies.

"We've turned down an offer from Tottenham for Curtis - he is not for sale," said Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson.

"If we can keep all of the boys together and bring in a couple of new players, I believe we will have a really good chance next season."

Davies moved to The Hawthorns from Luton Town last summer for a fee of £3million and quickly became one of the club’s star players.

Baggies turn down Gera bid

Wigan Athletic fail with a £1.75million bid for Albion midfielder Zoltan Gera.

Baggies’ Chairman Jeremy Peace said: "We have made it clear since the day we knew which division we will be playing in next season that it is our intention to strengthen the squad, not take it apart."

Tuesday 23rd May 2006

Duo linked with Robinson

Bolton Wanderers and Everton are both linked with a move for Albion left-back Paul Robinson.

The 27 year-old starred for Bryan Robson’s men last season and looks set to be the focus of Premiership attention this summer.

Robinson moved to The Hawthorns from Watford in October 2003 for a fee of £250,000.

Friday 19th May 2006

Peace hopeful on Kirkland

Albion chairman Jeremy Peace has revealed that the club have not given up hope of bringing Chris Kirkland back to The Hawthorns.

The goalkeeper spent the past season on loan from Liverpool and quickly impressed until a series of injuries saw him lose his first team place to Tomasz Kuszczak.

With Kirkland being told he is surplus to requirements at Anfield, the Baggies’ chairman is hopeful a deal can be done.

"Chris had a good time here and I know the coaching staff, especially Joe Corrigan liked him and like working with him," said Peace. "Given the chance we'd like to have him back.

"But it's up to Liverpool and Chris, although we gather Chris wouldn't mind coming back. At the end of the day we're a Championship club and he's used to the Premiership so whether that has an influence, who knows?

"But if we can come to some form of arrangement with Liverpool then I'm sure we'd do that. It would involve a wage-share deal in a loan deal because he's contracted to Liverpool."

Red Devils in for keeper?

Albion’s Polish international goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak is linked with a move to Premiership giants Manchester United.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is said to be in the market for a goalkeeper after allowing Tim Howard to join Everton on a season-long loan deal.

Kuszczak, who joined Albion in the summer of 2004, has just 12 months left on his Hawthorns contract.

Gera wants out?

According to newspaper reports, Albion midfielder Zoltan Gera is set to slap in a transfer request following the club’s relegation.

The Hungarian international, who missed most of last season through injury, is believed to be interesting a number of Premiership clubs with Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City all being linked with the player.

The 27-year-old moved to The Hawthorns from Ferencvaros for £1.5million two summers ago.

Thursday 18th May 2006

Robson admits Jerome interest

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson has confirmed that he is interested in signing Cardiff City striker Cameron Jerome but has dismissed City’s asking price of cash plus Jason Koumas.

Albion are believed to have offered Cardiff a straight swap deal last week by offering Koumas for the England Under-21 striker - a deal rebuffed by City chairman Sam Hammam.

"Cardiff want money plus Jason Koumas - but I think it should be the other way round," said Robson.

"Jason is probably a better player than Jerome at this moment in time so if there is any deal to be done, Cardiff have got to give."

Robson dismisses Duke interest

Albion boss Bryan Robson insists that he will fight 'tooth and nail' to keep Nathan Ellington at The Hawthorns.

Ellington is rumoured to be a transfer target for his former club Wigan Athletic but Robson has insisted that the player is not for sale.

The Baggies’ boss said: "Wigan can say what they like, but Nathan only signed for us last summer and we don't want to sell him. He had a stop-start season because of injuries, but he is a major part of my plans.

"I'm under no pressure to sell any player and I want to keep my squad together.

"Nathan Ellington has proved that he can score 25 goals in the Championship and that's what we want him to do next season. The chairman has backed me and I don't have to sell Nathan.

"I will fight tooth and nail to keep him, and there's no way I want to sell Nathan Ellington to Wigan or anybody else."

Earnshaw speaks on Robson rift

Former Albion striker Rob Earnshaw hits out at Bryan Robson saying that he "would have had to turn water into wine" to gain a regular first team place at the club. Earnshaw’s time at The Hawthorns ended in January when he moved to Norwich City in a £3.5 million move.

"I don't even think about the relationship with Bryan Robson any more. It's gone. It wasn't fun but I would have had to turn water into wine to get into the team, not many people can do that,” said the Welsh international.

"I scored a hat-trick at Charlton the previous season and then I was told I would be substitute the next game. That summed it all up, it was that day that I thought I should move on.

"That said it all, I knew then I would be going. The manager hardly ever spoke to me apart from criticising, that's how he is.

"But I don't want to think about it now. I am done with that and it's not my problem any more and I can get on with other things."

Earnshaw continued: "I always felt that when I played at West Brom I scored. The criticism sometimes got personal but I wasn't hurt, I felt that if I was playing I would score but when I wasn't, how could I score?

"I've still got mates at West Brom, Nathan Ellington, Curtis Davies, Darren Carter, and I have talked to them since. I am gutted for them that they have been relegated, but it is not for me now to talk about West Brom.

"It's over, I have moved on and started scoring goals again for Norwich. I understand there will be new players coming in and I want to score the goals that takes them back to the Premiership.

"Things have improved for me. I am settled on and off the pitch at Norwich. The Premier League is now my aim, I have nothing to prove because I showed I could score goals there, and that is where I want to be.

"At West Brom it was frustrating, I was just waiting to play and it wasn't happening. But I didn't allow myself to get too down, you know me, I'll have a laugh and joke and I'd soon be back to normal.

"I enjoyed playing when I did get into the team. It was different to Cardiff where I scored and played all the time, but the feeling that got me through was knowing when I did play I scored, and that was what I was signed to do.

"When I wasn't picked I couldn't score. I'd maybe scored in the last match I was picked for, even got a hat-trick, so I was left asking, 'Shouldn't I be playing?’.”

Wednesday 17th May 2006

Rovers date confirmed

Albion will face League Two side Bristol Rovers in a pre-season friendly it is confirmed.

The game will take place at the Memorial Stadium on Tuesday, July 18, with a 7:45pm kick off.

Koumas out of Wales squad

Albion midfielder Jason Koumas withdraws from the Wales squad ahead of next week’s two friendly games citing personal reasons.

Wales assistant boss Roy Evans has dismissed suggestions that Koumas has has become the latest player to fall out with boss John Toshack.

"It's not a stand off in any way. We're just disappointed for Jason and ourselves that he is not progressing in his international career," said Evans.

"We've been told he has personal reasons and we don't know much more than that.

"It's unfortunate that Jason is missing out because he's a lad who looks like could develop into a player. He had a great year with Cardiff and we would've like to have him with us. But sometimes families do come first and you have to be sensible with it.

"That's the disappointment of the trip, but everyone else is here and that can only be good from our point of view.

"We're trying to get him on the pitch because we want him to improve at international level," Evans added. "He needs to make that step forward now and start performing at international game. Unless he gets that experience he's not going to develop from our point of view."

John Toshack’s side are due to play a Basque XI on May 20 followed by Trinidad and Tobago a week later.

Tuesday 16th May 2006

Baggies linked with MK Dons hot-shot

According to newspaper reports Albion are interested in MK Dons’ Birmingham born striker Izale McLeod.

The 21 year old, who scored 18 goals last season, is expected to leave the National Hockey Stadium this summer following his club’s relegation to League Two.

Black Country rivals Wolves are also said to be interested in the England Under-21 star.

Albion set for Shittu bid

Albion are said to be ready to make an offer for Queens Park Rangers defender Danny Shittu.

Nigerian international Shittu, who is valued in the region of £2.5million, is a long-standing target of Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson.

Monday 15th May 2006

Season Ticket prices revealed

Albion announce that they have reduced adult season-ticket prices by six per cent for next season - prices will start at £419.

With four extra league games next season, Albion officials calculate that the price cuts actually amount to a 25 per cent saving.

All concessionary prices have been frozen with prices starting at £149 for Under 16s and £249 for Under 18's and Seniors.

The club have also introduced a special incentive which ensures that all supporters who purchase individual adult season tickets by the close of business on Saturday, June 17 will have the price of their adult season tickets held for the following season - regardless of which division Albion are in.

A family season ticket is also being introduced by the club which will mean supporters that buy two adult season tickets and one junior season ticket will get an extra junior season ticket free.

Baggies’ Finance director Mark Jenkins told the club's official website: "Our relegation from the Premiership was a big disappointment for everyone connected with the club - but we are determined to bounce back.

"There can be no doubting the fact we will need our supporters more than ever next season. On that basis, as well as reducing adult prices, we have introduced great new deals. We hope these will encourage existing season ticket holders to renew and other fans to consider becoming season ticket holders. Our two new offers aim to repay fans' loyalty and help attract the next generation of supporters.

"In setting season ticket prices, we have tried to strike a balance between keeping prices at a reasonable level and giving ourselves the best possible chance of winning promotion. Ticketing income is now the largest element of our revenue and plays a key part in funding player recruitment and wages.

"By keeping the existing squad together - which we are determined to do - and recruiting new players in the positions the manager has highlighted, next season promises to be an exciting one.

"Our supporters were magnificent throughout the last campaign and particularly showed their true colours during our final two games against West Ham and Everton. Having that kind of backing next season will be a major asset to the club."

The full prices are as follow:

Birmingham Road End and Smethwick End: Adults - £419; Seniors & Under-18's - £249; Juniors and Disabled £149.

Halfords Lane and East Stand Lower: Adults - £469; Seniors & Under-18's - £279; Juniors and Disabled £179.

East Stand Upper: Adults - £519; Seniors & Under-18's - £299; Juniors and Disabled £199.

Duo off to Germany

Albion duo Junichi Inamoto and Tomasz Kuszczak are called up by their respective countries for the forthcoming World Cup.

Midfielder Inamoto has been selected in Japan's 23-man squad to play in Germany next month, when they will face Brazil, Australia and Croatia in Group F.

"I am extremely happy I have been selected for the Japan squad for the World Cup," said the former Arsenal and Fulham star.

"It will be a completely different World Cup to the one hosted by Japan.

"I am hoping I can show what I have gained by playing in England for the last four years."

Kuszczak is one of three goalkeepers to be named in the Polish squad but there is no place for Liverpool's Jerzy Dudek. The Poles will face Costa Rica, Ecuador and the host nation Germany in their Group A games. 

The duo are the first Albion players to be named in a World Cup squad since Jimmy Nicholl featured for Northern Ireland twenty years ago in Mexico.

Chaplow dismisses exit talk

Young Albion midfielder Richard Chaplow has insisted that he intends to remain at The Hawthorns despite talk of him leaving the club.

Chaplow, who spent the second-half of last season on loan at Championship side Southampton, has recently been linked with a move to Premiership Wigan Athletic, but the former Burnley star insists he has no intention of leaving Albion.

"I've never thought about walking away. I want to play my football here at Albion. I have things to prove," he said.

"The Wigan link is a surprise. I can't see how you can be linked with a club riding high in the Premiership if you haven't been playing at that level. It's all talk with no substance.

"I want to be a West Brom player and I think the gaffer wants me here too. I have spoken to him briefly since I came back here but he was pleased with what I achieved."

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson confirmed that Chaplow does indeed have a future at the club.

"Richard Chaplow can have a real good future in the game and I do feel in the next two years he will turn out to be a real top player," Robson said.

"Maybe people sometimes forget he is only 21 and he has got a lot of ability.

"I felt that last season was a bit too early for him to play week in, week out in The Premiership which is why I allowed him to go to Southampton and get matches under his belt.

"He has done well, will be better for the experience of the last few months and will be a better player for us for next season when we have to try to get back in The Premiership."

Jerome bid rebuffed?

Albion are reported to have had a player swap deal for Cardiff City striker Cameron Jerome turned down.

Albion are believed to have offered Welsh international midfielder Jason Koumas, who spent last season on loan at Ninian Park, in exchange for 19 year-old Jerome.

Birmingham City are also believed to have had a £3million bid - £1.5million of which was dependent on their promotion and survival in the Premiership - turned down.

Cardiff chairman Sam Hammam has said that both bids were "not acceptable" and is understood to be seeking a fee in excess of £3.5million.

Sunday 14th May 2006

Kuszczak on duty

Tomasz Kuszczak plays the first 45 minutes of Poland's 4-0 win over the Faroe Islands in Wronki.

The Albion keeper was replaced by Celtic’s Artur Boruc at half-time.

Albion linked with French star

According to media reports, Albion are set to make a move for Bolton Wanderers’ defender Bruno N'Gotty.

The former French international, 34, was told earlier this month that his contract with Wanderers would not be renewed after five years at the Reebok Stadium.

Saturday 13th May 2006

Baggies handed Gaardsoe fitness boost

The club are boosted by the news that defender Thomas Gaardsoe could be fit for the start of next season.

Gaardsoe recently underwent a major groin operation which was expected to keep him sidelined for anything between three and six months but the Danish international has now been given the green light to begin running work.

Meanwhile, it is announced that midfielder Richard Chaplow will be fit for the start of pre-season after undergoing minor knee surgery last week.

Friday 12th May 2006

Kuszczak pledges future

Albion's Polish international goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak vows to see out the remaining year on his Hawthorns contract despite the club’s relegation from the Premiership.

"I have one year left on my contract at West Brom and I plan to honour that and stay to try and help the club back up," Kuszczak told the Birmingham Mail. "I'm happy and have no plans to leave.

"My intention is to stay in the first team and if Chris (Kirkland) does come back then I'll be in the same situation as I was this season so it makes no difference.

"Chris is a good friend of mine off the pitch but on the pitch we're fierce rivals - I think the competition helps all three of us."

Robson keen for Duke to stay a Baggie

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson confirms that Nathan Ellington does have a part to play in next season’s bid to regain Premiership status despite rumours suggesting he could be on his way out of the club.

Ellington moved to Albion in a £3 million deal from Wigan last summer, but he has failed to really impress during his time at The Hawthorns.

Recently, Wigan boss Paul Jewell admitted he would welcome Ellington back to The JJB Stadium, sparking rumours that the player could be leaving.

Robson has insisted though that Ellington does have an Albion future. "I signed him because I think he will score a lot of goals for us. He can be a massive plus for us in The Championship.”

Thursday 11th May 2006

Nicholson gets England call-up

Young Albion striker Stuart Nicholson is called up into the England Under-19 squad for the UEFA Elite Round tournament in Belgium next week.

Nicholson, who was on standby for the competition, replaces Theo Walcott who has been called-up into England's World Cup squad.

Speaking about his call-up the young Geordie said: "For me it's a great honour to represent your country at any level.

"I'm trying to keep my head on my shoulders and keep cool and calm. I'm looking forward to the challenge.

"It has just happened so quickly, but I sort of expected it in a way when Theo got called up to the England squad. I'm not being big-headed, I just thought I'd be in with a shout and then I got the call an hour later."

The tournament takes place from May 18-23 and will see England take on Belgium next Thursday, Northern Ireland two days later and Serbia and Montenegro a week on Monday.

Baggies linked with Cardiff hot-shot

Albion are the latest club to be linked with Cardiff City striker Cameron Jerome.

The England Under-21 star looks set to leave Ninian Park this summer and Albion are reportedly ready to make a move for the £3million rated star, possibly offering out of favour midfielder Jason Koumas in part exchange.

Birmingham City, Portsmouth and Sheffield United are all also said to be interested in the player.

Albion in Johnson u-turn?

According to media reports, Albion could be set to offer midfielder Andy Johnson a new contract despite apparently releasing the player earlier in the week.

The club are said to be ready to offer the former Wales international a one year deal but on reduced wages.

The rumoured move has been condemned by supporters as a backward step.

Wednesday 10th May 2006

Stability the key says Peace

In what will be seen as a major boost to his manager Bryan Robson, Baggies’ chairman Jeremy Peace has insisted that 'stability' is the key to Albion's chances of regaining their Premiership status. Peace, who yesterday confirmed Robson will keep his job, also insisted that the club are under no pressure to sell any players and confirmed funds will be made available for Robson to add to his squad.

"Right the way through the club, we're very disappointed about being relegated - the board, management, players and fans. But we're in fighting mode,” Peace told the club’s official website.

"We've got to take a deep breath, dust ourselves down and get on with it. Bryan's certainly up for it, everyone on the board is up for it and I know everyone else at the club is up for it. We'll give it a good shot next season.

"We were in exactly the same position at the end of the 2002/03 season and, at that time, Gary Megson was the manager and remained so when we got re-promoted. That stood us in very good stead and we see no reason to alter that view this time round. Because the close-season is so short, stability is massively important - as is the unity within the club.

"It's going to be very tough because approximately two-thirds of next season's Championship teams will have played in the Premiership over the last 13 years. But the club is in good financial shape. That means we will not be selling any players unless we choose to do so. We will be keeping the squad together with a view to strengthening it. The plan is very much the same as the last time we got relegated - to keep the squad together and try to get straight back out.

"We know it will be very difficult. But, as I've already stressed, everyone at the club is up for the challenge."

Despite numerous recent calls for Robson to be sacked, Peace believes the England legend is the ideal man to lead Albion back into the Premiership.

"We were in a precarious position when we appointed Bryan and one of the reasons we took him on was he had experience of a relegation and re-promotion. We see that as being very important.

“The team is now Bryan's. He has shaped it the way he wants and, this summer, it will be a process of evolution to freshen things up. We won't be selling any players unless we choose to do so. On the contrary, we will be looking to improve the squad.  I said that the last time we got relegated and I'm saying it this time. During my four-year chairmanship, we have never sold a player unless the club wanted to. Bryan has got the squad he wants, with certain additions to be made, and hopefully that will do the job for us next season."

Peace also paid tribute to the club’s fans insisting that they too have a part to play next season. "I think our fans have been absolutely tremendous all the way through the season," said Peace.

"We now have to show the fans we mean business to get them to continue supporting us week in, week out. We will need a real team effort next season - but we're looking forward to the challenge."

Johnson thanks fans

Andy Johnson, who left the club earlier this week, has spoken about the end of his Albion career.

The 32-year-old midfielder, who joined from Nottingham Forest in September 2001, experienced two promotions, two relegations as well as playing a part in the club’s ‘Great Escape’.

"It's been a rollercoaster ride - getting promoted, getting relegated or hanging on the edge of a cliff," said the former Wales international.

"But it's been good and the fans have been on that ride with me. They have always been really good to me. I've had a great relationship with them. They're a great bunch of supporters and I've really enjoyed it.

"I've no idea what is next for me," Johnson added. “I've got a few options and my agent is getting things together. I'll sit down and work out what it is I want to do.

"At the moment, I'm enjoying my football and I think I've got a lot of years left in me. I'll probably carry on playing until they drag me off in a coffin!"

Tuesday 9th May 2006

Robson to stay

Baggies’ chairman Jeremy Peace has confirmed that Bryan Robson will remain as the club’s manager next season despite relegation from the Premiership.

"We believe in stability here," said Peace. "Last time round when we got relegated we won promotion again with the same manager (Gary Megson).

"Our view as a board is that stability, and getting the right players in early in the close season, is vital for us and that is what we will be trying to do. With that in mind the last thing you want to do is jettison the manager who is very much part of our plans."

Peace admitted that Robson’s experience of managing at Championship level had also played a part in the club’s decision to retain him.

"When we took Bryan on in November 2004 one of the things we noted in his CV was that he has managed in The Championship before. He knows what it is all about. I think that is good for him and it is certainly good for the football club."

The Baggies chairman also insisted that none of the club’s better players will be sold. "The worst thing we could do would be to start selling players. Unless the board deem it appropriate there will be no player sales at all this summer."

Welsh star linked

The club are linked with a £2million move for Celtic striker John Hartson.

An Albion source reportedly told the Daily Record: "Hartson has been in our sights for some time and we may have stood a better chance of getting him had we stayed up but, because of his personal situation, we feel there's still a chance we can land him."

Johnson departs

Bryan Robson confirms that midfielder Andy Johnson will leave the club following four and a half years at The Hawthorns. The player, whose contract is up, has been strongly linked with moves to a number of Football League clubs during recent months.

"Jonno's a good honest pro who, at this stage of his career, wants to be playing first-team football," said the Baggies’ boss. "I need to make a bit of room to try to bring the younger players like Richard Chaplow and Darren Carter through."

Johnson joined Albion from Nottingham Forest in September 2001 and went on to help the Baggies’ to two promotions into the Premiership. The former Welsh international made 144 appearances and scored four goals for the club.

Robson happy with Peace talks

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson confirms that he met with the Albion board on Monday to discuss the club’s plans for next season. Despite months of rumours that his relationship with club chairman Jeremy Peace had broken down, Robson revealed the talks had gone well.

"I had a meeting with the chairman and board yesterday morning and it was very positive," Robson told the club’s official website.

"We talked about the future and trying to make sure we keep all the boys and add to the squad. If we can get a couple of the players we're after and keep the current boys happy then it gives us a really good chance for next season. I think the current players showed on Sunday they are very capable.

"I've identified positions and given the chairman a list of players I'd like to bring in. He will work on that over the next few days and weeks. A lot depends on the lads who are out of contract with us but we will try to get a couple in regardless.

"The board and I want people in by the time we get back for pre-season on July 6 because it shows the supporters and the boys the intentions and ambitions of this club. It shows we're serious about getting back to the Premiership and not hanging around."

Robson hopeful on Kanu future

Albion manager Bryan Robson reveals that he is confident that Kanu will stay at the Hawthorns despite the club’s relegation from the Premiership.

The striker was expected to exercise his get-out clause should the club suffer relegation but Robson has revealed that the Nigerian star has indicated a willingness to stay with the club.

"We will chat to Kanu this week and hopefully he will stay," Robson told the Birmingham Mail, "We want to speak to him and if we can persuade him to stay then I really believe he will be a real asset to us in the Championship.

"Kanu has given me indications he would be happy to stay at the club and come to some kind of an agreement with us."

The Baggies’ boss believes that the challenge of regaining the club’s Premiership status may bring out the best in the player.

"I've always said players sometimes like a different kind of challenge or target," said Robson.

"Getting promotion is something to achieve and some players can look upon that as a completely new challenge for themselves. It could be similar to when I signed Merson for Boro because he had a fantastic season and helped us to go up - that's what I'd like Kanu to do."

The lanky star became the Baggies first seven-figure earner when he joined them on a free transfer two years ago.

Davies linked with Toon move

Newcastle United are the latest club to be linked with Albion’s highly rated defender Curtis Davies.

Arsenal and Tottenham have already shown a strong interest in the youngster who according to recent reports has had a £15 million price tag placed on him.

Monday 8th May 2006

Greening given award honour

Jonathan Greening is named as Albion's official Player-of-the-Year for 2005/06. The award, last year won by Ronnie Wallwork, is selected by Bryan Robson and his coaching staff.

"Jonno has had a solid season," said Baggies’ boss Robson. "He was in good form right from the start and he's continued it all the way through the year."

Young striker Stuart Nicholson ended an excellent personal season by winning the Young-Player-of-the-Year Award.

"Stuart has scored plenty of goals for both the youth team and reserves," said Robson. "As long as he keeps his feet on the ground, and keeps improving, he will score goals at this level."

Darren Carter won the Goal-of-the-Season Award for his stunning strike against Arsenal at The Hawthorns in October.

"It was a fantastic strike worthy of winning any game and capped a great comeback against the Arsenal," Robson enthused.

Meanwhile, at the Supporter’s Club’s Player of the Year Evening, Ronnie Wallwork took the main award with Jared Hodgkiss being named the Young Player of the Year.

Darren Carter took the Goal of the Season award for his strike against Arsenal whilst Dr Roger Rimmer picked up the Jeff Astle Memorial Award for his services to the football club.

Loan duo return home

Albion boss Bryan Robson announces that he will not be pursuing the permanent signings of loan duo Jan Kozak and Williams Martinez.

Both Artmedia Bratislava midfielder Kozak and Defensor centre-half Martinez joined Albion in the January transfer window but neither has impressed sufficiently to earn a permanent deal.

The Baggies’ boss confirmed: "They will be going back to their clubs. I've obviously had chance to have a look at them and I just feel we need that little bit better quality if we can get it in the summer.

"But they're both cracking lads and I'd like to wish them all the best in their future careers."

Slovakia international Kozak made a total of 6 appearances for Albion with two of those coming from the substitute’s bench. Despite displaying an excellent passing ability, a clear lack of pace meant the player struggled against Premiership opposition.

Uruguayan international Martinez fared no better making just one start and one substitute appearance for the club. The defender’s short spell at The Hawthorns ended with a bitter-sweet afternoon in the 2-2 draw at Goodison Park on the final day of the season. After putting Albion 2-0 up in the 47th minute, Martinez was at fault for both Everton goals which denied Bryan Robson’s men a memorable win.

Aggborough game announced

Albion announce their second pre-season friendly game ahead of the 2006/07 season.

The Baggies will face conference side Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday, July 15 with a noon kick-off.

With the club due to face Walsall at Bescot Stadium three hours later, Bryan Robson will split his squad in two. The Baggies’ boss used a similar ploy at the start of this season when he sent two teams to play AFC Telford United and Cheltenham on the same day.

Kuszczak gets Polish call-up

Albion goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak is named in the Polish squad for Sunday's friendly against the Faroe Islands in Wronki.

Quashie to miss Japan trip

Albion midfielder Nigel Quashie is forced to withdraw from Scotland's Kirin Cup squad with a back injury.

Quashie, who moved to The Hawthorns in January, has been replaced in Walter Smith's Japan-bound squad by Glasgow Rangers' Gavin Rae.

Scotland face Bulgaria on Thursday before taking on the host nation two days later.

Watson set to stay

Albion defender Steve Watson reveals that he expects to be at The Hawthorns next season as the club battles to regain its Premiership status.

Like his team mate Kanu, Watson has a relegation release clause in his contract that can be activated by either him or the club, but the player appears up for the challenge of the Championship: "If someone comes in and gives me a chance of playing in the Premiership for a couple of years then I can't say that I wouldn't think about it, but otherwise I will be coming back for pre-season," said the former Newcastle and Everton star.

Albion bank a million

It is announced that Albion's second-from-bottom finish means they will collect £969,922 in Premiership prize money. Champions Chelsea received £9.69million.

Sunday 7th May 2006

Albion end with a draw

An injury time goal from Duncan Ferguson denies Albion all three points in their last game of the season. Bryan Robson’s men had taken a two goal lead through Zoltan Gera and Williams Martinez but the hosts hit back with goals from Victor Anichebe and the veteran Ferguson to claim a share of the points. The Baggies, backed by an enthusiastic following were indebted to Polish goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak who produced a number of breathtaking saves to keep the Toffees at bay.

Hungarian midfielder Gera opened the scoring on 14 minutes when he slid in a Jonathan Greening cross at the far post. It was the player’s first league goal since his point saving strike at Sunderland in September. Uruguayan Williams, making his full league debut, put Albion two ahead on 47 minutes when he volleyed home a loose ball following a Greening corner.

With the clock running down and with Albion looking set for only their second away league win of the season, young Everton substitute Anichebe lost his man Williams in the box to fire past Kuszczak and so set up a nail biting finale.

Despite some desperate defending, Albion’s heartbreak was complete in injury-time when the hosts were awarded a penalty following a Williams challenge on Arteta. Scotsman Ferguson, in his farewell appearance at Goodison, struck a weak penalty that Kuszczak easily saved, only to convert the rebound and thus ruin what looked set to be an excellent end to a terrible season for the Baggies.

A crowd of 39,671 were in attendance.

Saturday 6th May 2006

Robson admits Davies fear

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson has admitted that young defender Curtis Davies could leave The Hawthorns this summer, although it would take a 'massive' offer to persuade the club to sell

After signing from Luton Town for £3 million at the start of the season, Davies impressed at the heart of the Albion defence and earned a call up into the England Under-21 squad, something which did not go unnoticed by a number of other Premiership clubs with Arsenal, Tottenham, Portsmouth and Everton all being linked with the player in recent months.

"Everyone keeps talking about Curtis. He has come a hell of a long way in a short period of time. Everyone has got their price. I don't want to sell Curtis. That's the last thing on my mind," said Robson.

"If a big club does come in for him, what does Curtis want to do? Does he want to play in a team and still keep improving and build his reputation even more or does he want to go and sit on a bench somewhere?

"He is not the finished article yet. He has got a lot of things to work on his game to become a top player. We want to keep him.

"I've absolutely no intention of selling Curtis but you can never say that definitely. But what I don't want to do is give false hopes and we all know the economics of the situation. If a big club comes in with massive money then you don't know what might happen."

Friday 5th May 2006

Inamoto future uncertain

Baggies’ midfielder Junichi Inamoto admits that he may be forced to leave The Hawthorns if he does not gain regular first-team football next season.

"I haven't spoken yet to the manager or my agent but, whether I play in The Championship or at another level is something I need to consider," Inamoto admitted.

"If the manager is thinking of keeping all the midfield players and if the situation is that I can't get a regular starting place in The Championship then it may be a problem. There is a big difference between sitting on the bench in The Premiership to sitting on the bench in The Championship.

"That is something I need to discuss with the manager. I will be 27 this year and if my situation is that I cannot get a regular place then there will be a doubt over my future at this club.

"I want to play for a club where I'm needed and if Bryan Robson feels he needs me for West Bromwich Albion then I would be happy to play for the club in The Championship. But if that's not the case, and another team wants me, as a player then I am willing to listen to offers."

The player joined Albion in August 2004 from Japanese side Gamba Osaka but has struggled to pin down a regular first team place at The Hawthorns.

Jewell to make Duke move ?

Wigan Athletic boss Paul Jewell reveals that he may consider making a move to take Nathan Ellington back to The JJB Stadium during the close season.

Ellington moved to The Hawthorns from Wigan in August for £3million but despite being the club’s leading scorer he has struggled to win over either his boss Bryan Robson or the club’s fans. His relationship with both recently soured when he refused a pain-killing injection and chose to sit out a number of the club’s crucial games.

Speaking about Ellington, Latics’ boss Jewell admitted his admiration for the player but ruled out an imminent move: "It is no secret that I am a big fan of his. So far it has not gone that well for him at West Brom. But I have not been in contact with his agent or the club."

Robson almost a ‘Wolf’

Albion boss Bryan Robson has revealed how he could have taken over at Black Country rivals Wolves instead of returning to The Hawthorns.

In his new autobiography "Robbo", the Baggies manager reveals the events that led to him becoming Albion manager.

"My old club, West Brom, parted company with Gary Megson and I sensed this was the opportunity I had been waiting for. I put my CV together and sent it down to the chairman, Jeremy Peace.

"Then I phoned Ron Atkinson, because I knew he still had good contacts at the Albion. Ron spoke to a few people and came back to tell me they were interested in me and I had a good chance of making the shortlist. As far as I knew, Gordon Strachan, Glenn Hoddle and Gerard Houllier were also on the list.

"Things were moving on the West Brom front when I got a text message from Paul Ince. He had moved on to Wolves and he was eager to tell me they were also looking for a new manager to replace Dave Jones. Wolves was another of those jobs I felt was an attractive proposition. I certainly would have been interested and I was led to believe they wanted to speak to me, but by then I had arranged to meet Jeremy Peace.

"Stories in the national press claimed that Hoddle was a virtual certainty for the West Brom job and that he was going to get a £1m a year contract," Robson writes. "I think that upset the chairman, who wanted to conduct business in a quiet, confidential way until he had reached a decision.

"I gather Strach didn't convince the chairman he was ready to get back into football at that stage and Houllier was apparently never really a front-runner."

Robson also admitted that he was questioned during his interview about the rumoured "drinking culture" during his time as Middlesbrough boss.

"I explained to him (Peace) that all stemmed from Paul Merson's comments. I told him I wouldn't allow anything of the sort and that I had a strict code of conduct for my players.

"It is annoying that this subject keeps cropping up, but I could understand the chairman's concerns. Certain sections of the press are always going to look for a chance to churn out the same old rubbish and knock me."

Thursday 4th May 2006

Baggies to honour Roper

Albion’s first pre-season game is announced. Bryan Robson’s men will face Walsall at Bescot Stadium on Saturday, July 15 in a testimonial game for long-serving Saddlers’ defender Ian Roper. Kick-off is at 3:00pm.

Shittu linked

Albion are linked with a move for Queens Park Rangers defender Danny Shittu. Rangers chairman Gianni Paladini has insisted however that he will not let the Nigerian star leave unless the £3million release-clause in his contract is activated.

"Danny has a contract that keeps him with us unless someone comes in with a £3 million bid," said Paladini. "So far there have been two derisory offers and the best of those was £750,000."

The 25 year-old, who moved to Loftus Road  from Charlton for £350,000 four years ago, has also been linked with Birmingham, Norwich and Sheffield United.

Koumas gets Welsh call

Albion midfielder Jason Koumas is named in the Welsh squad for their two friendly games later this month. John Toshack's men face a Basque X1 in Bilbao on May 20 and Trinidad and Tobago, in Graz, Austria on May 27.

Koumas has recently returned to The Hawthorns following a season long loan spell at Cardiff City.

Hammers target Baggies’ duo?

West Ham United are linked with a move for Albion midfield pair Zoltan Gera and Jonathan Greening. Hungarian international Gera has already been linked with moves to Aston Villa, Everton and Charlton.

Wednesday 3rd May 2006

Academy side end season with a draw

Albion’s Academy side end the season with a 1-1 draw against Manchester City at The Hawthorns.

Stuart Nicholson gave the Baggies the lead on the hour mark only for Karl Moore to grab a 75th minute equaliser for City.

The game ends a disappointing first Academy season for Albion with the club finishing 9th in their ten team league.

Robson offers Koumas hope

Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson has revealed that want-away midfielder Jason Koumas could get the chance to resurrect his career at the Hawthorns. The Welsh international spent the last season on loan at Championship side Cardiff City for whom he has expressed a desire to sign for permanently.

Despite Koumas’ desire to leave and despite a reported falling out of the two, Robson has now acknowledged that Koumas could yet have a first team future at The Hawthorns. "Jason was sent to Cardiff in the hope that he would mature as a player and as a person. Dave Jones knows our valuation of him. That hasn't changed but if they are not prepared to meet it he will return to us,” said the Baggies’ boss.

"We hope that if Jason does come back we will see him accept responsibility, on and off the pitch. If that has happened, then I am confident that we will have a big asset on our hands for next season."

Albion are reported to be looking for around £1.5million for the player they paid Tranmere Rovers £2.25million for in August 2002.

Robson admits Kirkland still a target

Albion boss Bryan Robson refuses to rule out a move to sign on-loan Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland permanently. The keeper is currently sidelined with a broken finger but is still training with Albion.

"Chris has shown an unbelievable attitude," said Robson. "He's come in and been mixing with the lads. He's been training with us even though he can't do any goalkeeping because of his broken finger.

"He's shown real commitment, so that will be a position we'll be looking at to see if we can take it any further forward."

Tough task facing Baggies admits Robson

Albion boss Bryan Robson admits the club will be installed as one of the favourites for promotion next season but insists he will not be underestimating the task ahead of him and his players.

"The players won't be straining all the time next season," the Baggies’ boss told the club’s official website. "When you're playing against the Manchester United’s and Arsenal’s, you're up against some of the best players in the world.  I don't mean any disrespect by this, but our lads are not top, top players. That's why we've been fighting relegation. They have to strain to compete against those other players.

"But I believe some of the Championship players will be straining to try and stay with our lads because we'll hopefully have that extra bit of quality. We need to prove that by finishing at least in the play-offs at the end of next season.

"These lads have experienced it before. They know what it takes and that it won't be an easy ride. No-one here is thinking we'll just be automatically promoted."

Robson admitted fellow relegated sides Birmingham City and Sunderland will also be pushing for an instant return to the Premiership. "Blues will have a useful squad and look at how Sunderland won the Championship the last time they were in it.”

"The likes of Leeds, who are in the play-offs at present, have been rebuilding and restructuring their squad.  There are some decent squads in the Championship, some big clubs and it will be a difficult challenge. But we won't be competing against the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea.

"Instead, we'll be the ones people will be looking at and trying to shoot down because we'll be one of the favourites to go back up."

Chaplow linked with Latics move

Albion midfielder Richard Chaplow is linked with a move to Wigan Athletic.

Latics’ boss Paul Jewell is believed to be eyeing up replacements for outgoing midfielder Jimmy Bullard who has agreed a £2.5million summer switch to Fulham.

Former Burnley star Chaplow has struggled to impress at The Hawthorns and was loaned out to Southampton in February for whom he made 11 starts and scored one goal.

Tuesday 2nd May 2006

Duo go under the knife

Baggies' duo Neil Clement and Richard Chaplow both undergo knee operations.

Clement's injury kept him out of last night's 1-0 defeat at home to West Ham while Chaplow's loan spell at Southampton was cut short by his need for minor cartilage surgery.

"We're hopeful Clem and Chappy's operations will be straight forward," said Baggies’ boss Bryan Robson.

"If there are no complications, they should have no problems being fit for the start of pre-season."

Robson to open player talks

Albion boss Bryan Robson reveals that he will this week open talks with his players to see who is up for the challenge of regaining the club’s Premiership status.

Steve Watson, Kevin Campbell, Kanu and on-loan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland all look certain to be first through the manager’s door to discuss their futures.

Watson and Kanu both have two-way get-out clauses in their contracts which, in the event of relegation from the Premiership, means the club can decide to release them or the player can opt to leave.

Striker Campbell is out of contract at the end of the season while the injury-hit Kirkland is coming to the end of his season-long loan spell from Liverpool.

"The one thing I've got in my favour as a manager is that financially we can keep everybody because that's the way the club has been structured," said the Baggies’ boss. "That's what I'll try to do.

"I had conversations with a couple of players on Sunday and they were very positive. This week, I've got to go through all the players and speak to them about the challenge of next season and what it's about for this football club.

"Steve Watson, Kevin Campbell, Kanu and Chris Kirkland are all out of contract at the end of the season. Those are the lads I need to speak to to see what's in their mind and whether we want to keep them or not. If they're up for the challenge, that's great. If they're not, it's something I've got to look at and change around.

"I've been in this position before with Middlesbrough when we got relegated and a couple of my big players wanted to go," Robson added. "I allowed them to go but I replaced them with two great players in Paul Merson and Andy Townsend.

"I know the expectations will be that we've got to bounce back. It isn't that simple but I feel if we keep the nucleus of this squad together it gives us a good chance. As far as I'm concerned, we all went down together and they owe the club and the fans something. It's a case of: can we get back out together?"

Sunderland star linked

Albion are linked with a summer move for Sunderland striker Kevin Kyle.

The People claim that the Scottish international is a target for Bryan Robson who has reportedly made a striker his transfer priority. Kyle, 25, has scored one goal in 13 appearances for Sunderland this season.

Midland rivals Aston Villa are also being linked with the Stranraer-born player.

Monday 1st May 2006

Battling Albion lose again

At The Hawthorns, a 42nd minute Nigel Reo-Coker goal is enough to condemn relegated Albion to a ninth defeat in twelve games. Despite a spirited second half performance Albion once again lacked the cutting edge to break their opponents down.

Despite pre-match rumours of mass demonstrations against the Albion board and manager the night was a low-key affair with only limited dissent being shown towards the Hawthorns hierarchy.

A crowd of 24,462 witnessed the last Premiership game to take place in West Bromwich for at least a year.

Gera distances himself from move talk

Albion midfielder Zoltan Gera refuses to comment on speculation that he could be set to leave The Hawthorns following the club's relegation.

The Hungarian international is reported to be a target for a number of Premiership clubs including Everton, Charlton Athletic and Aston Villa.

In a statement issued on his personal website, Gera said of the speculation: "I've heard that a few clubs have been linked with me, but I don't want to react to these rumours. I have got used to the fact that you hear different information every day and most are far from reality.

"I had a similar period last year when everyone was guessing about a possible transfer, but I knew I'd stay.

"I am an employee of West Bromwich Albion, I've got a contract and because of this the only thing that matters is what my club say and want to do.

"So I ask everybody not to expect any comments from me about these rumours.

"I want to do my best on the pitch, I am glad I am healthy and I can play. That is the most important thing for me."

Gera joined Albion in the summer of 2004 from Ferencvaros for £1.5 million.