West Bromwich Albion unveiled Steve Clarke as their new manager on 8th June 2012, following the departure of Roy Hodgson. The 48-year old Scot takes over from Hodgson following his appointment as the new http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/England-c749 coach
As new manager, Clarke wishes to hold on to strikers Peter Odemwingie and Shane Long this summer. The attacking duo has been linked with moves away from the Hawthorns this summer, especially since Peter Odemwingie has insisted on his desire to play for a
bigger club.
Shane Long and Peter Odemwingie had both been integral to West Brom’s Premier League campaign last season, and Clarke is keen on keeping them at the Hawthorns.
Clarke is quoted to have said; "He's (Odemwingie) a top player, a Nigerian international, he scored goals in the Premier League consistently. There's no reason to doubt that he's not a top, top player and I'm really looking forward to working with him."
"His goal record here is really good. He's the man you look to for the goals. Normally as an opposition coach I would be looking and seeing that http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Peter-Odemwingie-c29794 has scored again."
Clark also remains adamant about retaining the services of Shane Long. Having been signed for £6.5 million, Long remains West Brom’s record signing. The Irishman has however failed to replicate the form he displayed at Reading that had convinced West Brom
to acquire his signature.
Clarke still rates Long very highly and revealed that he had spoken to the Irishman following Ireland’s disappointing Euro campaign.
Steve Clarke reportedly told the Sunday Mirror that despite not getting the chance to play for his country in the Euro, Long is positive that he will come back stronger and fresher this coming season.
If West Brom are able to hang onto the duo, they will be able to build on the success they achieved last season and possibly contest for a Europa League spot. West Brom have been quote formidable at the Hawthorns, and with 'new' signing http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Ben-Foster-c7445 already
in the bag after making his loan spell into a permanent one, they will try to add more to the list of players coming in to the club.
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