Dan Ashworth defends transfer hunt

Sporting director Dan Ashworth has launched a passionate defence of Albion's January transfer hunt - and claimed the club tried to sign 29 different strikers.

Ashworth has been stung by fans' criticism of the Baggies' January dealings, with Arsenal youngster Carlos Vela - on the bench on Saturday - the only new face to arrive.

They missed out on Villa striker John Carew, along with Chelsea youngsters Daniel Sturridge and Jeffrey Bruma.

Ashworth said: "We were unfortunate not to get John Carew in the end. But it wasn't through lack of trying and not being willing to pay what people wanted us to pay.

"He made a decision to go to Stoke City and I respect that. We didn't sit on our backsides and do nothing through the window. We actually made bids on 29 strikers in January to take on loan.

"Some weren't available, some had work permit issues, two were not medically fit to come so we pulled out.

"Two moved within their countries because they didn't want to move their families. It's a long drawn-out process. From a defensive point of view we sat down and talked about strengthening.

"But we had Jonas Olsson back fit, Gabriel Tamas back from suspension and Steven Reid was nearly fit again.

"Of the defenders we talked about, it was viewed by the technical staff they weren't any better than what we had and they were more than happy to run with what we had.

"I get frustrated as well. I don't think anyone is more passionate than I am or the staff at the club. We're desperate to succeed.

"But as the chairman stated, January is basically for topping up, and we haven't historically done a great deal in January.

"It is very, very difficult."

The sporting director Dan Ashworth has launched a passionate defence of Albion's January transfer hunt - and claimed the Baggies tried to sign 29 different strikers. also insisted new head coach Roy Hodgson will stay next season even if the Baggies are relegated.

The former Fulham and Liverpool boss has signed a deal keeping him at the Hawthorns until the summer of 2012.

Ashworth said: "Roy has signed a contract until June 2012 and it's very much for the continuation of West Bromwich Albion.

"We're delighted to have him for that length of time.

"But our first target for the next 12 games is to stay in the Premier League."