Defender excited to team up with old boss
MARC Wilson feels his loan chance at Albion will put the spark back into his football following his switch from Bournemouth.
The 29-year-old Republic of Ireland defender is at The Hawthorns for the remainder of the season and determined to seize this fresh opportunity under a man he knows so well – Tony Pulis.
“I’ve had my best times as a footballer under Tony and I’ve got nothing but respect for the man,” says Wilson who was first recruited by Albion’s Head Coach during his Stoke City stint.
“We reached an FA Cup final and then challenged well in the Europa League – fantastic memories and great days for me personally.
“It’s absolutely no surprise to me seeing Albion doing so well. I’ve been watching them on the TV and they have really impressed me. They are playing some great stuff and look like a team going places.
“Tony has always got the best out of me and I am genuinely thrilled to get this chance under his charge again.”
TOGETHER AGAIN: Pulis signed Wilson at Stoke from Portsmouth in 2010
Knutsford-based Wilson, a 25-times capped player who was disappointed to miss the European Championships alongside Jonny Evans and James McClean through injury, admits personal reasons have influenced his eagerness to return to the Midlands.
Added Albion’s new No.12: “I’ve got to admit that I have been in the doldrums for the last 18 months. There have been personal reasons in living so far away from a young family which have not helped me.
“Coming to Albion suits me perfectly. I believe I can be of use to the Club because I feel one of my strengths is being able to play in a number of positions across the back or in midfield.
“My aim is to do enough over the period of the loan to hopefully convince Albion to make a deal permanent. It feels great to be here and I feel like I’ve got my spark back.”