Hodgson backs travelling army

16 March 2012 16:50
Boss thanks fans for support

Roy Hodgson has hailed Albion’s travelling army as more than 4,500 Baggies fans prepare to travel to Wigan.

Demand for free travel and tickets has outstripped the club’s expectations as Albion will again be backed by a bumper following.

Baggies boss Hodgson thanked Albion’s loyal fans for following his men around the country and insists their presence is valued.

"It is fantastic," said the former Liverpool and Fulham boss.

"Our support home and away has been good but 4,500 is an exceptional crowd to be taking to an away game because Wigan is not exactly on the doorstep.

"We thank the fans very much for that and will be working very hard to show how much we value their support by giving a good performance and trying to win the game.

"It's great credit to them and it is great credit to the club that they've put on an initiative that will help some to get to the game cheaper than they could have done.

"But our support has been good since I came to the club and, if anything it is increasing.

"Our away fans are quite vocal.

"I noticed it even at Old Trafford amongst 70,000 United fans when our fans were stuck right in a corner. The 1,800 made their presence felt.

"That is a great advantage to us and shows the fans share our ambitions for the club and enjoy being in the Barclays Premier League.

"They enjoy going to these other Barclays Premier League grounds, watching their team play and supporting their team, and we've got to make certain we give them that opportunity again next season and we continue to play well enough to derive some pleasure from watching us play.

"I do think they are a realistic bunch. They don't go to Old Trafford expecting us to come away 4-0 winners. They know it is going to be very tough.

"But what they do expect is a performance like the one the players gave, sweating blood if you like until the last minute."

Are you going to Wigan? If not, have your say as the action happens here at WBA-MAD's fans' forum at Baggies Banter. 

Source: FOOTYMAD