Watson staying with Baggies

There was speculation that Watson would be leaving Albion after the club`s relegation to the Championship after it was revealed that he had a release clause. He has decided to sign an extended deal and his experience will be invaluable to us as we attempt to get promoted at the first time of asking.

Robson told the official site, “It’s great news Steve is staying with us.

‘His ability to play in different positions should prove a valuable asset and his knowledge of the game will hold him in good stead in the Championship.’

Watson finished last season partnering Curtis Davies at the back and impressed alongside him. He can play in a number of positions across the back four and midfield and has also figured up-front in his time.

Watson will feature somewhere in the defence next season but with the signing of Chris Perry will most probably mean him battling it out with right-back Martin Albrechtsen.

The news that Watson has signed a further two-year extension means that Albion should have enough cover at the back. Albion have Davies, Watson and Perry available for the start of the season with Neil Clement and Thomas Gaardsoe returning from injury before Christmas.

They also have Albrechtsen who can cover in the centre but he will most probably start at right-full back.

I`m pleased that Watson has signed his extension as I believe that it shows we are serious about returning to the Premier League and I also hope that it sends out a message to the other first-team players that we want to get straight back out of this division.