Interviews

‘It was a pleasure to play with him’

ZOLTAN Gera has received congratulatory messages from a trio of Albion stars following the announcement of his retirement.

Head Coach Darren Moore and Albion stalwart Chris Brunt - who both played with Gera - and Sam Field who watched him from the stands, have all had their say on his career in the video above. 

The Magic Magyar has called time on a 22-year playing career which included two spells at The Hawthorns. 

Gera scored 29 goals in 171 appearances during his seven seasons with the Baggies. 

During his debut campaign with the club he played a pivotal role in ‘The Great Escape’ as Bryan Robson’s men became the first team to avoid relegation from the Premier League after propping up the table at Christmas.

Three years later he was again influential when Tony Mowbray’s Albion won the Championship, scoring eight goals from the wing in 43 appearances.

The following season Gera departed for a new challenge at Fulham, with whom he reached the Europa League Final in 2010. 

But Roy Hodgson, the man who took ‘Zolly’ to Craven Cottage, brought the fans’ favourite back to The Hawthorns in 2011. 

His second spell with the Club saw him experience two serious knee injuries, but will also be remembered for some incredible goals - not least among them his 20-yard volley against Liverpool on the opening day of the 2012/23 campaign.

Gera can also boast an impressive record for his country, having amassed 97 caps and 26 goals for Hungary. 

Everyone at West Bromwich Albion congratulates Zoltan on a memorable career and wishes him well in his retirement.