KEVIN Phillips has declined a new contract with Albion and has left to join Coca-Cola Championship outfit Blues.

The striker, who is 35 later this month, was offered a two-year contract by the Baggies, with the second year based on performance criteria.

Phillips needed to appear for Albion in only 19 league games, including substitute appearances, to activate the second year.

Manager Tony Mowbray said: "We made Kevin a very substantial financial offer for the next two years but in my opinion the second year had to be earned.

"Kevin's advisors were adamant they wanted a straight two-year contract and, as that was the sticking point, I have no problem with the outcome.

"I am happy that as a club we made a fair and realistic offer to Kevin and I'm obviously disappointed he has chosen not to accept it.

"But I've had a couple of very amicable conversations with Kevin in the past two days.

"Now that he has made his decision, I would like to thank him for his goals and contribution over the past two seasons.

"He is a top professional and has been a pleasure to work with.

"We all wish him well."

Phillips signed for the Baggies from Villa in August 2006.

Having scored just four goals in 23 appearances for Albion's neighbours in the Premier League, he dropped down to Championship level and made 71 league outings, including 11 as a substitute, scoring 38 times.

Phillips suffered a serious knee injury in November's 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday but ultimately netted 24 goals in 30 starts and eight substitute appearances last term.

Mowbray added: "Kevin was a big player for our club over the last two seasons but we should look forward to some new exciting players coming here.

"I remain very positive.

"This time last year we lost some very influential players but went on to win promotion and reach the FA Cup semi-finals."

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