Chris Lepkowski comment: Why West Brom can establish themselves in Premier League under Peace stewardship

Apr 12 2010 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

WHEN the cheers had died down, when the fans had dispersed, Albion’s directors filed in front of the club photographer.

Only one was absent.

It was like the newly-elected cabinet convening for a photoshoot without the new Prime Minister.

Where was Mr Peace?

The Albion chairman was already in Dubai taking a break which had been arranged for some time.

But, make no mistake, this is a team effort. Whether it’s Dean Kiely at No.1, Steven Reid at 44 or Jeremy Peace in the best parking bay you could possibly get at the training ground.

They, and, of course, Roberto Di Matteo and his coaching buddies, deserve a pat on the back.

But now is the next step.

So while Di Matteo enjoys his red wine, some of us are looking at Peace.

His summer will be crucial.

Albion do promotion well. It’s become a speciality.

But survival is next. More so, establishing themselves in the top flight.

The Baggies, I feel, will go for experience next season rather than young blood.

There was much muttering when Tony Mowbray sought youth rather than experience two summers ago. It was a plan of action which didn’t work.

Blues have proven that it can be done. Wolves are there, or not far away.

The key is that there isn’t a lot wrong with this Albion side. It’s got flair, it’s got pace and it’s got Di Matteo’s prints all over it. It’s looking like his team. Not as indulgent as Mowbray’s side, but probably more effective.

I’ve saved my praise for Di Matteo elsewhere but the onus falls on Peace.