With news that West Bromwich Albion had invited former Republic of Ireland international midfielder Wes Hoolahan to our training ground for a short trial period during the September international break, initial reactions to the news from fans that I saw was largely positive, if not that excited.
The 36-year-old was let go over the summer by Norwich City after having spent a decade at Carrow Road and with over 300 games to his name in club football, let alone 43 caps in international matches, he’s incredibly experienced at both top-flight and Championship levels, so many were welcome to the idea of a short-term deal until next summer as cover in midfield.
As the night went on though, and more fans heard about the speculation, excitement hit for these fans at least as they think it would be a solid move and that he should definitely become our ninth capture of the summer.
If Hoolahan signs for @wba I’d be a very very happy Baggie #please #squatandpray #hoolahan #wba #COYBIG
— Tom O'Connell (@tomthebaggie) September 5, 2018
Wes Hoolahan ???? squad player ???? #wba
— Matthew Fleet (@MAF79) September 5, 2018
From a norwich fan – the bloke is a genius, most Norwich fans were genuinely heartbroken when we released him. I’ll be heartbroken to see him play against us, bloke is absolute quality haha
— Scott (@scottjdack) September 5, 2018
Might be a biased Irishman but it would be a fantastic signing imo. He's actually probably better than Chadli.
— Colm Brosnan (@ColmBrosnan) September 5, 2018
As much as I dislike us bringing in players in the mid-30s, when I see some very talented youngsters at the club waiting for an opportunity,Hoolahan is still a very decent player at this level, and would be an alternative to Morrison in the 10 role,should Barnes pick up an injury
— The Shepherd (@DickLaurent96) September 6, 2018
I’d certainly get Edwards and Harper involved, it’d be unfair to rely on them as starters tbf though so I can see the logic behind Hoolahan
— Tomwba (@Tomwba98) September 5, 2018
If a sensible financial deal can be made, given the reference to youngsters he could certainly help them on the training pitches as well.