Big Sam details why £40k/wk star was ‘first name’ on transfer list at West Brom
West Brom are on the verge of signing Robert Snodgrass from West Ham, and Sam Allardyce has spoken highly of the Scot.
The pair have never worked together but the West Brom manager utilised one of his many contacts in football to gain an understanding of the player, West Ham chairman David Sullivan.
Allardyce spoke about the signing on Thursday: “I am absolutely delighted he has chosen to take up the challenge with us and that we will be adding some much needed Premier League experience and quality into the squad.
“Because of his character he became the first name on my list, and past relationships sometimes work in your favour.
“David Sullivan, at West Ham, because of the years we spent together was a help in moving the situation on.
“I’ve heard from many people he is exceptionally good in the dressing room which is a great bonus on top of his ability.”
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From Allardyce’s words it is clear that he will be hoping for an immediate impact from the 33-year-old.
After all, West Brom will need exactly that if they are to reverse their dire form and rise out of the bottom three.
Added to that, Snodgrass presents a bit of a gamble if the club are to be matching his West Ham salary of £40,000-a-week.
An 18-month contract mitigates that risk slightly, but it will use up a chunk of what is allegedly a small budget at the Hawthorns.
However, Allardyce clearly feels the former Scotland international is a sensible addition.
He should be trusted given his experience in the game, too, and his aptitude at keeping teams up.
Adding leadership qualities and players with strong character could prove key, particularly if Big Sam is to get his young players firing.
One relationship we think is worth keeping an eye on is how Snodgrass supports Grady Diangana, with the duo having played together at West Ham.
In other West Brom news, the club has made a £9m bid for a Turkey international.