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Page last updated at 12:38 GMT, Tuesday, 8 July 2008 13:38 UK

Mowbray expects Phillips to leave

Kevin Phillips
Phillips joined West Brom from Aston Villa for �700,000 in 2006

West Brom boss Tony Mowbray says he expects veteran striker Kevin Phillips to leave the club this summer.

The former England international, who turns 35 later this month, wants a two-year contract but the Baggies are only offering him a one-year deal.

Mowbray said: "I am pretty sure his preferred choice would be to stay.

"But, at this moment, it is unlikely that Kevin will stay here. If there is a stumbling block that we cannot overcome then so be it."

The former Watford, Sunderland, Southampton and Aston Villa player scored 24 goals last season and helped West Brom win promotion to the Premier League.

606: DEBATE
MK-Baggie
But Mowbray says the forward's age means the Baggies cannot offer him a longer contract.

"My strong belief, particularly when footballers get to 35, is that I find it very hard to hand out two-year contracts to 35-year-olds - however well they have done," revealed Mowbray.

"I genuinely believe if Kevin wants to stay, he should back his ability and earn his second year.

"But we are looking for another striker regardless of what he does."

Meanwhile, West Brom have appointed former Norwich manager Peter Grant, 42, as their new first-team coach.




see also
Kim left out of South Korea squad
05 Jul 08 |  West Brom
West Brom complete Dorrans deal
04 Jul 08 |  West Brom
West Brom bag defender Zuiverloon
03 Jul 08 |  West Brom
Phillips could stay with Albion
23 Jun 08 |  West Brom
Mowbray wants Phillips to stay on
24 Apr 08 |  West Brom


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