Carlos Corberan has given his view to West Bromwich Albion as they contemplate how to approach the end-of-season issues that await them, particularly those involving players whose contracts are about to expire. As things stand, Albion will say goodbye to a number of senior players and academy graduates, as well as three players on loan.
Much will, of course, depend on the level in which Albion competes next season, both in terms of determining which players to keep and the funds they’ll have to work with, as teams consider the ever-tightening financial constraints in place.
Among the most important issues are the fates of Cedric Kipre and Alex Mowatt, both of whom have been changed by Corberan and now play key roles in the starting XI. Aside from that couple, Matt Phillips, Kyle Bartley, Adam Reach, Erik Pieters, and Nathaniel Chalobah are among the talents whose contracts are about to expire.
Time is not of the essence. While Albion must continue to focus on what is going on on the pitch, with two games remaining and, if all goes well, a play-off campaign to participate in, they are spinning plates off the field and will soon have to make decisions – either way. Corberan has been left with no doubt about the commitment of all concerned despite the lingering uncertainty for many.
“I have been talking with the club about this, because you can always find a gap, a time, to talk about your feelings,” he said. “It’s true that I’ve heard many people remark things like, ‘How can you compete with so many individuals finishing the contract?’ or whatever. I highly admire this bunch of gamers’ commitment. They are on loan, have a contract for next year, and will finish this year.
“I sense no difference with any of them. None of them make me feel any different. This makes me feel relaxed. All of them have made it apparent that they aim to provide the best for the club this year, and let’s see what happens after.
“I am coaching a bunch of players that have demonstrated remarkable devotion to our club this season. So there are thoughts, and it is wonderful to have them and share them with the group; it is always beneficial to have our thoughts in common.”
