Club News

Bomber: I'm overwhelmed

Bomber speaks of 'emotional' day

ALBION legend Tony Brown was today left 'overwhelmed' at the unveiling of his own statue as he was joined by secret guest and boyhood hero Denis Law.

Former Baggies team-mates and footballing dignitaries came together to celebrate the permanent monument to Albion's record appearance maker and highest-ever goalscorer.

Ex-players Graham Williams and Cyrille Regis, along with ex-Albion managers John Giles and Ron Atkinson, were among the speakers at the gala event. They were joined by broadcasting legend John Motson, who commentated on Albion's Bomber-inspired 1976 promotion-clincher at Oldham.

The celebration took an emotional twist when Manchester United legend Law, a man who inspired Brown during his childhood years, was presented as the surprise guest.

Albion Chairman Jeremy Peace then addressed 400 supporters and dignitaries in front of the East Stand, before a group of Albion's Academy players helped 'Bomber' unveil the statue.

Tony said: "I was really taken aback when the Chairman told me two years ago that the Club wanted to build a statue. It's an incredible and humbling honour for me.

"It's a proud day for me and I would like to thank everyone involved. I would also like to thank my family for their support over the years.

"I'm totally overwhelmed and it was incredible to see Denis Law - who was the player I idolised when I was a young lad growing up in Manchester United."

It took two years to organise today's celebration of an Albion career which spanned 20 years, 720 appearances and 279 goals.

Bomber's first-ever coach, 90, Frank Hodgetts- also the club's youngest-ever player, was among the former Albion players and coaches.

Ally Robertson, Len Cantello, John Wile, Asa Hartford, Doug Fraser, Campbell Crawford, John Trewick, Dennis Clarke, Bobby Gould, Joe Mayo, Micky Fudge, David Cross and Darren Moore were also present.

Head coach Alan Irvine, coach Keith Downing, club captain Chris Brunt, Craig Gardner and Liam O'Neil were representing Albion's first team.