Unsettled Hoefkens can quit West Brom in summer

Apr 1 2009 by Chris Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

MANAGER Tony Mowbray has told Carl Hoefkens to go through the correct channels if he wishes to leave Albion this summer.

The defender claimed in the Belgian press last week he was considering his Hawthorns’ future after failing to nail down a regular place.

Mowbray was shocked by the comments but is willing to discuss the matter with the Belgium international.

If the 30-year-old wants to leave, he will be allowed to do so.

“It (the quotes) surprised me when I saw them but Carl Hoefkens is a man, not a little boy,” said Mowbray.

“I don’t rule this place with an iron rod or the type who makes sure that anybody who says anything out of line is smashed down.

“It’s not like that. Carl is well within his rights to speak.

“I always prefer people to air their disappointment to me and not publicly because I think it can erode team camaraderie if individuals start speaking out.

“I understand that it’s better for the media the more players they can find to speak about dissention.

“But I understand Carl’s frustration because he is an experienced international player who hasn’t been playing in the Premier League and it’s not as if we have been ripping the place up defensively.