Ex-West Brom coach Aaron Danks plays role in Alex Gilbert transfer to Middlesbrough
Former West Brom coach Aaron Danks played a prominent role in Middlesbrough’s signing of Alex Gilbert, according to Michael Carrick.
Attacking midfielder Gilbert, who formerly played in the youth set-up at the Baggies, signed a four-year contract at the Riverside Stadium after departing Brentford.
Danks has previously worked as a youth coach at The Hawthorns and is now a part of Carrick’s coaching staff, and the former Manchester United midfielder explained his role in the signing of Gilbert.
Speaking to the club’s official website in quotes reported by the Northern Echo, Boro boss Carrick said: “Funnily enough, Danksy knew him. He knows everyone, Danksy. He’s been in and around the youth system at West Brom for some time, so he knows Alex from there.
“Alex went on from there to Brentford and did really well. He plays between the lines and is a really good footballer. He plays off his left foot and right foot, and scores goals. He’s very good to watch, and a talent with potential. We’re really excited to see how he can improve and develop with us.”
One who got away
Baggies fans may be looking at Alex Gilbert as a player who got away if he can make his mark in the Championship under Carrick at Middlesbrough this coming season.
Gilbert was offered a professional contract at The Hawthorns at the end of the 2019-20 campaign but opted instead to make the switch to the Bees, where he was largely part of the B set-up – though he did make several first-team squads without making an appearance.
Brentford wanted Gilbert to remain at the Community Stadium, but 21-year-old – who had a spell on loan at Swindon in the 2021-22 season – clearly sensed that more first-team opportunities will arrive at the Riverside Stadium.
West Brom coach Carlos Corberan himself has admitted the Baggies may have to rely on promoting youngsters from their academy set-up this season as the club’s precarious financial position off the pitch means incomings are likely to be restricted to free agents and loans.
The Spaniard may have half an eye on Gilbert’s progress to see what might have been for West Brom.
In other West Brom news, the Baggies announced multiple new deals agreed by the club’s young stars.