Show me what you have got, says new boss

VALERIEN Ismael will watch his inherited Albion squad closely over the next fortnight before determining where he must strengthen in the transfer window.

The new head coach is renowned for demanding superhigh fitness levels from his players and it will be no different at West Brom.

The Baggies reported back for pre-season training last week and it is likely to be a gruelling month ahead. Ismael has also hinted at giving the academy prospects a chance to shine.

“It’s important to give everyone in the team a chance,” he explained. “I need to have an overview on the squad and what type of player we have.

“Can the player play how we want? Can the academy, young players? Are they able to have that intensity? We need a couple of weeks to have a clear overview and make our selection if we need to add something, or if we have something from the academy, for example.”

Ismael bangs the drum for unity and a collective effort beyond the playing and coaching staff.

“It’s a new way to train, and a new way to play for the guys, but they’ve come back with a great desire and a new reset mentality,” said the 45-year-old Frenchman. “This is what you need for the season and everyone is ready to go that way.

“We are ready to help the guys to understand quickly. The job for me, my staff, is to make sure they’re ready to compete.

“First of all I think it’s understand why we do this hard work. We need to create a work ethic for each other, that every player on the pitch works for each other.”

Once the players understand what is expected of them, only then will Ismael consider talking about an immediate return to the Premier League.

“In the long term, for us, it must be promotion,” he added. “At the moment, for me, it’s important to implement the philosophy.

“When we get that, we’ll be ready to compete. My job now is to close the gap quickly and prepare the guys to compete. When that comes, then will be the time to say we can attack for promotion.”