Shropshire Star

West Brom sign former Wolves winger Bakary Sako until end of season

Albion have signed former Wolves winger Bakary Sako on a one-year deal until the end of the season.

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Bakary Sako. Photo: WBA/AMA

The 30-year-old free agent has been on trial with the Baggies for the past fortnight, and has now agreed to sign following talks with the club.

He is eligible to play against Sheffield Wednesday tomorrow, and could be named in the squad.

Baggies boss Darren Moore was delighted to complete the deal, and he urged Albion fans to welcome Sako with open arms.

"He's one of us now," said Moore. "He was over the road in his previous career but now he's here with us. He's got the blue and white stripes on.

"It's not just Bakary who has played for both clubs, others have too. I see no problem. I want everybody to let him feel settled and at home.

"One thing I will say to the supporters, is he's been an absolute credit, even when he was on trial.

"He's worked hard, we've seen some flair in training, but his commitment has been second to none.

"He's really submerged himself in the club and the squad from day one.

"Speaking as a former Albion player and current head coach, he's been exceptional. I hope the fans are as excited as we are to have him on board."

Sako was released by Crystal Palace in the summer after turning down their offer of a new deal.

He spent three years at Albion's fierce rivals Wolves, where he scored 38 goals and laid on 36 assists in 124 appearances.

He can play on the wing, up front, or behind the striker, and Moore says his versatility was one of his enticing features.

"He's a wonderfully talented man," said Moore. "There are a variety of roles I see him playing in the team.

"He's got that know-how to play wide, through the middle, so that's a welcome addition to us.

"Once he's selected to play you'll see what area I decide to play him in.

"He brings competition and experience to the group as well as a knowhow of the division. It's a win-win and we're pleased to have him."

Moore has also been impressed by Sako's character off the field.

"He's got a wonderful calmness about him," added Albion's head coach. "He integrates with the team well and over the course of the time he's been training with us, he's supported us well."

Sako is eligible to feature at Hillsborough tomorrow, but Moore refused to divulge whether he'd play.

"He signed on time so he's eligible to play tomorrow," said Moore. "We'll have a look at where he's at.

"Nobody's got the God given right to come straight in but he's available so we'll pick and choose as we see fit."