Osaze has learnt his lesson – Siasia

Peter Odemwingie yesterday claimed he is getting closer to agreeing a new contract with Albion – despite talks hitting a snag over wages.

Boss Roy Hodgson confirmed money is a sticking point in negotiations with the Nigeria international, but both the head coach and his top striker insist the delay in reaching an agreement is not a major issue.

Osaze with team mates celebrating a goal in one of their matches under Coach Samson Siasia.

Speaking in California after playing 71 minutes against San Jose Earthquakes, Odemwingie said: “We are still talking and maybe soon, when we get back, the situation will be more clear and I can extend my contract for a year or two.

“It is closer to being something positive. It’s not 100 per cent, but if thingsrun normally then something will be agreed.”
Odemwingie has been the subject of speculation about a move elsewhere, but the 29-year-old marksman said: “The transfer window is long and it’s normal for players to have rumours about them.

“Of course, if I get an offer that pleases the club and myself and it’s from the ‘big 10’ clubs in Europe I would take a look at it.
“But I’m not worried, because I’m in a team where I am happy and playing well.

“I would think hard before leaving West Brom, because things are going well for me here and I am enjoying myself.”
Hodgson is not overly worried about the player’s future, despite the hold-up over a new deal.

He said: “We would like to reward him for his efforts last season but, at the moment, there is a difference between what his agent thinks the rewards should be and what we are prepared to pay and that negotiation is ongoing.

“But, whatever happens, Peter Odemwingie has got two years left on a contract, so the only question is about what salary he is going to be playing on.”

He has learnt his lesson — Siasia

Chief Coach of the senior national team, Samson Siasia has declared that the recalled West Bromwich Albion striker, Osaze Odemwigie has leant his lesson after serving  the two match suspension.

Siasia said that he never had anything personal against Osaze when he axed him from the team, stressing that he was only trying to instil discipline in the team.

”I never had anything personal against Osaze as some people have been trying to insinuate. The only thing was that I only wanted to prove to him that discipline must be maintained in a team if we are to make any impact.”

The Super Eagles chief coach noted that he was more than happy to have the player back in their fold saying that the team needed all the best legs that can be available.

He explained that he had to re-admit the player into the team after he personally called him to apologise for walking out on the team.