‘I was aware’ – West Brom signing reveals he sat by his phone waiting for transfer green light
West Brom have reaped the rewards of most of their new signings thus far.
The Hawthorns has seen several Albion legends, including Tony Brown, who continues to keep a keen eye on his former club.
Ryan Mason would have been looking to add to the Baggies’ history with a win against Derby County in the Championship.
The Hawthorns celebrated its 125th birthday in Albion’s game against Derby, but Andreas Weimann made sure the Baggies’ unbeaten streak in the Championship came to an end.
Nevertheless, West Brom remains a hot destination for players to arrive in the summer.
Chris Mepham reveals signing for West Brom was a ‘fantastic opportunity’
Chris Mepham arrived at West Brom from Bournemouth over the summer after helping Sunderland earn promotion to the Premier League.
The defender has been immense for Albion since his arrival, which is why Mason would’ve been delighted that Mepham returned to West Brom in one piece following the September international break.
But it seems the appreciation is mutual. In quotes provided by Birmingham Live on Wednesday, 17 September, Mepham revealed how hopeful he was to sign for the Baggies.
He said: “I was always aware of what a fantastic opportunity it is so it was just a case of staying close to my phone and waiting for the green light,’’ he said.
“This was a good move for me for a few reasons. I’m 27 now and I’m probably approaching the most important part of my career. I’d been at AFC Bournemouth for a long time and over the last couple of years I’ve been feeling ready for a new adventure. I had a really enjoyable loan spell at Sunderland last season. I was ready to move on a permanent deal and find a new home.
“I feel like I’m coming into my prime or like I’m already very close to it. I do still feel like I’ve got loads to give. I’d say last season was my first season where I played a lot of games for the first time in a long time and I found myself playing some of my best football.
“Now, with that experience and another promotion under my belt, I want to bring that here and hopefully we can have a successful season.”
How good has Chris Mepham been for West Brom?
Mepham started in West Brom’s 1-0 win over Stoke City, as well as their recent defeat against Derby.
After playing the full 90 in both games, there is no doubt that he is a valued member of Mason’s squad.
- Mepham has not recieved a red or yellow card in the Championship this season
- The defender has won 50 per cent of his tackles and aerial duels in the league
- Mepham has yet to be dispossessed when in possession of the ball
The centre-back has risen to the occasion several times for Albion so far. Since starting for Mason alongside Nat Phillips, West Brom have conceded one goal in two Championship games.
His experience winning promotion to the Premier League would have played a role in his signing. Mepham had been promoted with both Sunderland and Bournemouth before transferring to the Baggies.
Given his experience, commitment to Albion and performances thus far, Mepham will no doubt be one of the signings of the summer.
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