We need experience says West Brom boss

Dec 17 2008 By Chris Lepkowski

TONY Mowbray concedes not strengthening his West Bromwich Albion squad with more experienced players during the summer is now proving costly.

Fellow promoted clubs Stoke And Hull both went for Premier League know-how during the close-season, spending less on transfer fees but paying more on top flight-level wages.

The Potters, currently in 13th on 20 points, brought in the likes of Abdoulaye Faye, Amdy Faye and Thomas Sorensen, while high-flying Hull opted for George Boateng, Daniel Cousin and Geovanni, all three commanding big salaries.

Mowbray’s model was based around highly-rated younger players very much in their ascendancy and on lower wages, but without the experience.

The Albion boss accepts that he could have compromised by bringing in some more seasoned campaigners.

“This (Albion) team lacks Premiership League experience – not just age but nous,” Mowbray told the Birmingham Mail.

“Defenders putting themselves in the right position for example.

“They may not be as young, as fast, as good with the ball but they stand there when the ball comes in and know their job.

“Premier League experience is something, which looking back on, we’ve