Tony Mowbray pleased with record West Brom signing Borja Valero's first season

May 15 2009 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

“I understand the spotlight on a player that cost that amount of money.

“Yet, as I’ve said time and time again, he is by far our most technically gifted player.

“The biggest strength he gives our team is his technical ability and his passing.

“When we’ve had the season we’ve had, it’s pretty easy to pick on the negatives of he doesn’t go into tackles or smashing into people.

“People see that as a weakness and a potential target.

“Yet, I think his contribution has been fine this year.

“While he’s adapted, as other players have got to adapt to the league, maybe he’s one that is growing into the league and understanding the demands of it more.”

■ Albion have asked fans attending Sunday’s sell-out clash with Liverpool to arrive at The Hawthorns as early as possible. Turnstiles will open at noon.