Mowbray expects Phillips to leave

West Brom boss Tony Mowbray says he expects veteran striker Kevin Phillips to leave the club this summer.

The former England international, who turns 35 later this month, wants a two-year contract but the Baggies are only offering him a one-year deal.

Mowbray said: "I am pretty sure his preferred choice would be to stay.

"But, at this moment, it is unlikely that Kevin will stay here. If there is a stumbling block that we cannot overcome then so be it."

The former Watford, Sunderland, Southampton and Aston Villa player scored 24 goals last season and helped West Brom win promotion to the Premier League.

606: DEBATE
"It really would be a shame if Kevin Phillips were to leave the Albion as he made such a fantastic contribution last season "
MK-Baggie

But Mowbray says the forward's age means the Baggies cannot offer him a longer contract.

"My strong belief, particularly when footballers get to 35, is that I find it very hard to hand out two-year contracts to 35-year-olds - however well they have done," revealed Mowbray.

"I genuinely believe if Kevin wants to stay, he should back his ability and earn his second year.

"But we are looking for another striker regardless of what he does."

Meanwhile, West Brom have appointed former Norwich manager Peter Grant, 42, as their new first-team coach.

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