Albion new-boy Scott Carson today predicted a fierce battle with Baggies veteran Dean Kiely for the number one shirt at The Hawthorns.
The England man checked in from Liverpool yesterday on a four-year deal for a fee that could set a new club record.
But the 22-year-old said he expects a tough fight from Kiely before he gets the chance to rebuild his career at The Hawthorns.
“It’s not going to be easy and I’m not taking for granted that I’m guranteed the number one shirt,” said Carson.
“I’m going to have to work hard over the next few weeks before the season starts. Dean’s been a great pro over the years and is still going strong.
“He probably wants to have one or two more seasons in the Premier League. He’s not going to just lie down and let me take his place.
“It’s going to be a good battle for the No.1 jersey. I’m only 22 years old and I’m always looking to learn.
“Working with someone of Dean’s quality will hopefully help bring me on.”
Former Villa loanee Carson, who has been farmed out on loan to both Charlton and Villa from Liverpool, is looking forward to settling down in the West Midlands.
“I’m delighted everything is signed, sealed and delivered,” he said. “It’s great to be part of the club.
“Having spoken to the manager and seen the way he’s going, I think there’s going to be a good future here.
“It’s a big step into the Premier League but I’m confident, having spoken to the manager and seen the players that are at the club, we can have a good season.”
“It’s a big weight off my mind knowing that I’m going to be at a club for the next four or five years.”
Share this article:
What are these?