Boss prefers to focus on crucial period in season
STEVE Clarke says he is happy to put talks over his contract situation on the back burner so he can focus on what he believes is a crucial period in the Baggies' season.
The Albion chief moved to The Hawthorns as head coach in June 2012, signing a deal that committed him to the club until June 2014.
And he has agreed to discuss his future with Sporting & Technical Director Richard Garlick in the New Year.
“Someone ran a story about my contract and it all kicked off from there,” said Clarke.
“I’ve got no idea why it became such a big story overnight.
“When I came to the club I signed a two-year contract and people that are good at mathematics will realise that signing it in 2012 means it will end in 2014!
“The contract was always running down.
“It’s not a big issue for me because, before we get there, I think there is a lot of football to be played.
“We have a big game on Monday night against our local rivals, which we’re looking forward to.
“The contract situation for me will take care of itself.
“We have a number of games over December and January.
“It’s a busy, busy time and, when we get time, myself and the club will discuss the way forward.
“As far as I know, talks were always planned for New Year.
“I didn’t go to the club to ask for the contract; I’ve never asked for a contract in my life.
“I’ve been lucky that contracts have always seemed to come to me.
“That’s the way it is.
“I’m happy with the situation and the club is happy – and that should put everybody’s mind at rest.
“I’d be happy to stay.”