West Bromwich boss Roy Hodgson backing Billy Jones to be a hit

04 June 2011 11:09
ShareWest Bromwich boss Roy Hodgson is backing Preston defender Billy Jones to make the step up from the Championship to the Barclays Premier League after signing the 24-year-old on a Bosman transfer.[LNB]Jones has put pen to paper on a three-year contract with the Baggies after completing a medical.The former England Under-20 international was Preston's player of the year last season despite their relegation to League One.[LNB]Hodgson said: 'We're really pleased we've been able to secure his signature in the face of stiff competition from other clubs for his services.[LNB] Blaze of glory: West Bromwich boss Roy Hodgson has high hopes for Preston defender Billy Jones (above)[LNB]'It is great that he has chosen our club as the place to further his career and we are looking forward to working with him.[LNB]'We have been monitoring Billy's progress for some time and, like the player himself, we believe this is the right moment for him to move up a level.[LNB]'He has been a very consistent performer in the Championship for a long period and this is his chance to show he can be as good a player in the Barclays Premier League.'[LNB]Jones began his career with Crewe, making his debut as a 16-year-old, before joining Preston on a four-year deal in 2007 and has already clocked up more than 300 senior appearances in his career.[LNB] Excited: Hodgson is looking forward to working with Jones - his second signing of the summer after McAuley[LNB]He is Hodgson's second signing of the summer after Ipswich defender Gareth McAuley who also was a Bosman capture.[LNB]Hodgson will now continue his attempt to sign Blackpool midfielder David Vaughan who is out of contract with the Tangerines.[LNB]He has already held preliminary talks with Albion and is keen to remain close to his North Wales home.[LNB]Sunderland and Rangers have also been linked with Vaughan who has been offered a new contract by Blackpool but is keen to continue playing in the Barclays Premier League.[LNB] Peter's perfect: Wenger wings it with ?4m bid for West Brom striker Odemwingie West Brom keen to re-sign Manchester United stopper Tomasz Kuszczak WEST BROMWICH FC

Source: Daily_Mail