Watson joined Wigan from Crystal Palace in January 2009

West Bromwich Albion have signed Wigan Athletic midfielder Ben Watson on loan until the end of the season.

The 24-year-old will provide cover for Gonzalo Jara, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign with a broken metatarsal.

"We have been looking to strengthen the central midfielder area," said Baggies manager Roberto Di Matteo.

"Ben is very good technically and is a competitive player who knows the Championship very well."

Watson began his career at Crystal Palace, making his debut for the Eagles at the age of 17, before joining Wigan for £2m in January 2009.

But he has managed just 13 appearances for the Latics and spent four months on loan with Queens Park Rangers earlier this season.

The former England Under-21 international will not be eligible for Albion's FA Cup fifth round replay with Reading on Wednesday, but could feature in Saturday's Championship clash with Derby.

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