Charlie: I enjoyed a top time at Albion
CHARLIE Austin says he maintains a ‘great affiliation’ with West Brom, despite dealing a blow to his former club’s hopes of a return to the Premier League.
Austin struck the decisive goal in the dying minutes of the game for QPR at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium on Saturday to lift the Hoops above Albion into the play-off places.
Austin, who scored 11 goals for the Baggies as they sealed promotion to the top flight under Slaven Bilic, found his way back to QPR 12 months ago.
Despite being frozen out by Bilic and finding his game-time heavily restricted, he harbours no ill will towards the club.
“To score in front of a packed Loft was an amazing feeling,” said Austin. “Credit to the home fans, credit to the West Brom fans, because when Loftus Road is packed like that it’s a very good place to play football.
“I have a great affiliation with West Brom, the players that were there at the time were brilliant for me and it allowed me the opportunity to get promoted with them, help them go forward.
“When the time was right, they let me leave. I’d be on my way and we’d shake hands and wished each other all the best.
“When you score against your old team it’s a bit more special, but West Brom I have no issues with at all.”
The Hoops have won four on the trot in all competitions now, after inflicting yet another away-day defeat on Albion in the most painful fashion.
While they are on the up, the Baggies’ form has plummeted.
“A couple of weeks ago we were nine, ten points behind West Brom – now we’re two in front with a game in hand,” said
Austin.
“It does send out a good message. It’s massive for us.”