West Brom: 5 Reasons Steve Clarke Is A Big Gamble

3. Knowledge of the Transfer Market

A potential problem with bringing in an outside number two as number one is getting up to speed with regards the current playing squad and what additions need to be made. An internal promotion brings with it contingency €“ the new manager already knows the setup, the players, the areas that need improving. At a club like West Brom, where resources have to be used carefully and effectively, Clarke will want to make sure every pound is spent wisely. Fortunately for the Scotsman he has a good Director of Football in Dan Ashworth, but Clarke needs to find a balance between evaluating the current playing staff and getting in new players. With teams from the Championship performing better and better upon promotion, West Brom cannot afford standing still. If Clarke does decide he needs new players, how aware will he be of the transfer market? Negotiations can be left to Ashworth, but will Clarke feel comfortable relying on a scouting network he is yet to familiarise with? Will he want to see players for himself before buying? If he buys badly it€™s unlikely anyone will trust him with their money again.
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Reporting on football and sports at large since 2007. Written for Channel 5, BT, the PFA, the Football Ramble amongst many, many others.