West Brom had a superb season last year, many thought they had a decent chance of survival, but I think in reality everyone was pretty shocked by just how well they actually did. Many pundits and commentators this Summer wondered where the club could go next, and whether they could have an even better season this time around.
Indicators last Sunday were pretty good, they gave champions Manchester United a really good game at The Hawthorns and were perhaps unlucky to lose in the end. They worked hard, looked organised, and generally defended pretty well, although it would be fair to say the goal they did score was somewhat fortunate, thanks to some questionable goalkeeping by David De Gea.
Football fans were surprised when Roberto Di Matteo was given his marching orders early on last season, he had made a really good start and brought some quality players into the club and they were playing some decent football.
In appointing Roy Hodgson however they employed an experienced manager who is exceptional at clubs of that level and things definitely improved under his tutelage. They finished their campaign in 11th with 47 points, higher than the much lauded Stoke City and Bolton and you have to wonder whether they deserve more credit than they have been given.
They are now being linked to perma-crock Owen Hargreaves and whilst clearly the players physical condition is questionable, if he can pass a medical and prove some level of fitness he would be a real coup, he would add a lot of quality to the squad and could potentially help them move forward. It is unclear whether any deal would be a ‘pay as you play’ contract much like the one Michael Owen has at Manchester United, but being a club known for financial responsibility it could be a real possibility.
There was also more good news this week for Baggies fans with Nigerian international Peter Odemwingie signing a new 3 year contract, the forward had a sensational first season in the Premier League scoring 15 goals in 32 league games.
Considering the striker cost just £2.5million last summer from Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow it is clear to see that he was one of the bargains of last year and to tie him down to a new contract is great. There has been surprise interest from Wigan that was quickly rejected and he will most likely be the focal point of their attack this season.
What of this season though, can they improve on last years 11th place finish? Well as predicted they have not spent large amounts of money, their biggest outlay being Reading striker Shane Long who has cost them £6.5million and he made a dream start with a goal against United on Sunday.
Whilst you obviously see yourself as an authority on the fortunes of various football clubs, you should note that Chris Brunt is Northern Irish. Other than that your post makes interesting reading.
Good spot, that’s a bit of a head in hands moment from me, schoolboy error!