New-boy Goran Popov is told to be patient

West Bromwich Albion boss Steve Clarke today admitted new-boy Goran Popov will have to wait for his Premier League chance but insisted his entire squad will have a role to play.

Clarke has urged his out-of-favour stars to stay patient and told them they will all be called upon during the season.

But the Scot has admitted Macedonia international defender Popov will start his Baggies career as back-up to senior left-back Liam Ridgewell.

"Goran is under no illusions," said Clarke. "He knows he is coming in to fight for a place in the team and all the players now, after the start we've had, realise that they have to fight for their place in the team.

"As long as the competition is healthy then it can only be good for the club.

"If the team is performing well and getting results then the players not in the team will be disappointed but they're not stupid.

"They understand that they have to wait for their chance. And it will come because it's a long season."

Clarke has captain Chris Brunt, and summer signings Markus Rosenberg and Romelu Lukaku awaiting first Premier League starts of the season while Zoltan Gera has not figured in the league since the opening-day win against Liverpool.