West Brom signing Vydra: Zola told me to be a Baggie

The Czech Republic international became the Baggies' third new face of the summer when he signed on a season-long loan from Italian club Udinese.

And the 21-year-old, who starred for Watford last season with 22 goals, admitted a chat with his former Hornets boss Zola helped make up his mind on the move.

Clarke was Chelsea legend Zola's assistant at West Ham and the pair remain in regular contact.

Vydra said: "I didn't know a month ago if I was coming back to England but I am very pleased to become a West Bromwich Albion player and I will do my best for the team to make sure we play at a high level.

"There were a lot of clubs interested across Europe and from England but I chose West Bromwich Albion because of the manager we have here – Steve Clarke.

"He is one of the best managers in England and he plays a European style.

"I asked my former coach, Gianfranco Zola, for a suggestion and he said to come here because they play a European style of football and it will suit me.

"We spoke briefly on the phone and he advised me to come here because of the style of play should suit me and I think it's a good choice for me."

And Vydra admitted the chance to link up with fellow summer signing Nicolas Anelka was also a factor in his move.

The Frenchman is set to start in Saturday's season opener against Southampton while Vydra is likely to be among the substitutes with either Shane Long or Markus Rosenberg partnering Anelka.

Vydra said: "He is also one of the reasons I chose the club. It is a great opportunity to play alongside a big striker with a big history in football.

"I had a very good season last year and I would like to continue to do the same.

"I can't promise how many goals I will score but the most important thing is the club and that we win and then we will all be happy."