Wagner has the ear of players

HUDDERSFIELD players can still expect a clip round the ear from manager David Wagner despite their impressive Premier League start. The German celebrates two years in charge today and has taken the club from the lower reaches of the Championship to 13th in the top flight. “He still smacks players on the back of the head when they leave the dressing room,” said defender Chris Loewe. “He does it to wake you up. You have to be a bit clever sometimes to avoid getting hurt.”

Loewe, one of Wagner’s first signings, having played for him at Dortmund, said nothing had changed. “He’s the same as when he was in Dortmund. He brought all his ideas to the club and it has worked brilliantly so far,” he said.

“The most important thing is he is an honest manager. That is not a normal thing.”

West Brom boss Tony Pulis claims TV’s “failed managers” send him running for the kettle.

Albion fans are getting increasingly angry after just two wins in 19 league games dating back to last season. “We’ve got more experts on TV and radio than we’ve ever had in our lives,” said Pulis.

“Some of them have had a go at management and not done very well but they’re absolutely fantastic on the radio and TV. It’s amazing that they failed as managers.

“I never listen. At halftime I usually go out and have a cup of tea.”