Albion talisman Kevin Phillips today called for a speedy end to his contract talks so he can focus on a return to the Premier League.

The Baggies’ leading scorer is in negotiations with the club over extending his deal for another season.

And the 17-goal hitman, aged 34, is keen to resolve his future quickly.

“My contract is up in the summer,” said Phillips. “I want to carry on.

“Discussions have been held and they are still ongoing so we’ll see.

“I hope we can sort something out because I’d like to do it sooner rather than later.”

Phillips extended his goals tally for the season when he scored from the penalty spot at Peterborough on Saturday to seal his team’s 3-0 victory in the FA Cup.

It was his first cup goal of the season to add to his 16 in the Championship – a total that puts the former Sunderland and England marksman top of the division’s scoring charts.

And he revealed he now has dual targets for the season.

“I’ve always set myself goals targets over the years and said what they are,” he said.

“This year I have set myself a target and haven’t said what it is, but I’m close to it now.

“I’m enjoying it. From a centre forward’s point of view when you’re scoring goals it’s great.

“Let’s get promoted, that’s my new target. Once I reach my personal targets anything else for me is a bonus.”

Phillips was left on the substitutes bench on Saturday before being introduced at half-time for his first cup action of the season.

And the experienced forward is in full agreement with manager Tony Mowbray’s policy.

“The manager has said he knows I can’t play week in, week out,” said Phillips.

“I’d give it my best shot but the league is more important.

“The manager has chosen to leave me out because we have a big game coming up against a Preston side who have just had a fantastic result.

“That shows the strength of our squad.

“I wouldn’t say we’ve got a massive squad because people seem to be leaving left, right and centre, but we’ve got a quality squad and that showed.”