Express & Star

James McClean happy to be at 'stable' Albion

Published
Last updated

West Brom new-boy James McClean believes he's joined a "stable top-flight club" after sealing his transfer from Wigan.

more

The Baggies had a £1.5million bid accepted for the 26-year-old last week, with the winger undergoing a medical at the club's training ground.

McClean scored 11 goals in 87 appearances for Wigan and was voted Player of the Year last season, but was unable to prevent the Latics from slipping into League One.

The former Derry City man signed for Sunderland in August 2011, before joining Wigan in August 2013.

His move to the Hawthorns will see him link up again with former team-mates Stephane Sessegnon and Craig Gardner from his time at Sunderland and Callum McManaman from Wigan.

McClean said: "I'm delighted. I've played in the Premier League before and not only am I back here, but I'm with a stable top flight club and one that wants to push on.

"The gaffer here, Tony Pulis told me what his plans were and where I would fit in. It was all very positive. The Premier League is where any player wants to be.

"He also told me he has a great dressing room, it's been a stable club - but he's made it clear he wants to push this club on. I'm very ambitious.

James McClean after signing for West Brom today. Picture courtesy of the club.

"Everything about this move seems right for me - I'm very positive about it. Once the Albion came in this was a move I was keen to get done - this is a big club and a new chapter for me."

His imminent arrival is expected to be the first of a number of summer signings, as Pulis looks to put his stamp on the Albion squad for his first full season in charge.

The Baggies chief said: "He's got Premier League experience from his time with Sunderland.

"James has had a couple of indifferent years with Wigan, but he did well at Sunderland and we're very pleased to have him on board.

"I am absolutely confident that he can fulfil the potential to come back and be a big player for us.

"He's got pace, he's left-footed - so he gives us a good balance in the side - and he can score goals."

James McClean after signing for West Brom today. Picture courtesy of the club.

Fellow winger Matt Phillips, who finished last season in impressive form at relegated QPR, is understood to be a firm target. Pulis is keen to add two strikers and two full-backs to his ranks.

One player who doesn't fancy being part of Pulis' revolution, though, is Inter Milan's Yuto Nagatomo who was linked with a move to Albion last week.

The Japan International, whose contract in Italy expires next summer, is keen to sign a contract with Roberto Mancini's side, despite also courting interest from the likes of Schalke and Sampdoria.

Meanwhile, Premier League newcomers Norwich have completed the signing of ex-Albion midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu.

The 28-year-old DR Congo international made 211 appearances in six years for Albion, before being released this summer.

[comments_cta header="What do you think?" text= "Will James McClean's arrival make a difference at West Brom?" button="Log in and start commenting"]