West Brom boss Roy Hodgson hails Gareth McAuley

23 May 2011 12:22
ShareWest Brom boss Roy Hodgson believes Gareth McAuley will be 'a very valuable addition' to his squad as he began his rebuilding for next season by snapping up the defender from Ipswich. [LNB]McAuley was available on a free transfer after the expiry of his contract at Portman Road, and the Baggies confirmed his signing on Monday morning. The 31-year-old Northern Ireland international has put pen to paper on a three-year contract which will keep him at The Hawthorns until summer 2014.[LNB]It is hoped the arrival of McAuley, who has won 28 caps for Northern Ireland, will bolster a defence which leaked 71 goals in the Barclays Premier League this season.[LNB] On the move: Gareth McAuley will leave Ipswich when his contract runs out[LNB] [LNB]Hodgson said: 'We believe the time is right for him to embark on a career in the Premier League after doing so well in the Championship and for his country.[LNB]'We are very happy, in the face of lots of competition, to have acquired his services and persuaded him to join us.[LNB]'He is the Northern Ireland captain who knows British football and he will be a very valuable addition to our squad next year.'[LNB]McAuley will enjoy his first taste of life in the top flight if he joins the Baggies. He made just under 100 appearances for Ipswich during a three-year spell having previously played for Lincoln and Leicester. [LNB] Strong finish: West Brom ended their season with a fine comeback at Newcastle[LNB]Meanwhile, Hodgson has to decide whether to take up a 12-month option on defender Abdoulaye Meite, who will otherwise be out of contract next month. [LNB]Meite was recalled to the side when Hodgson took charge three months ago but has been out of form in recent weeks and was taken off at half-time against Newcastle. [LNB]Albion also have options they can take up on fringe players Marek Cech, Gianni Zuiverloon and Giles Barnes.  [LNB] West Brom swoop for McAuley after defender turned his back on IpswichNewcastle 3 West Bromwich 3: Tchoyi hits three to seal dazzling comebackTake it like a fan! Supporters of Premier League clubs review their seasonAll the latest West Bromwich Albion FC news, features and opinion[LNB]  Explore more:People: Roy Hodgson, Gareth McAuley Places: Newcastle, Northern Ireland

Source: Daily_Mail