Paddy McNair insists he’s really excited to link up with a club he’s “always admired”.
The 29-year-old has joined Albion on a loan deal from MLS outfit San Diego FC until December 31, 2024, becoming the club’s fourth senior signing of the summer following the earlier arrivals of Ousmane Diakité, Torbjørn Heggem and Joe Wildsmith.
McNair, a man who has 69 Northern Ireland international caps to his name, adds depth to Carlos Corberán’s options in defence and midfield and brings with him a wealth of Sky Bet Championship experience.
Andy Paddy says he’s determined to hit the ground running and have a positive impact at The Hawthorns.
Paddy is a Baggie! 🫡
Watch the first 𝗪𝗕𝗔 𝗧𝗩 interview with our new man here! 👊 pic.twitter.com/bGaEhGFoiv— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) July 25, 2024
He said: “West Bromwich Albion is a very good club and one I’ve always admired.
“I know a lot of lads who have played here in the past and they’ve all said good things about it. I’m really happy to be here.
“I’ve played in the Championship for the last seven years so I've got a lot of experience in this division.
“I’d say some of my best attributes are being good on the ball and a good passer. I’m a defender so I obviously love defending too.
“I’ve played in midfield throughout my career too, but in the last few years it’s mainly been centre-back I’ve played.
“I’m happy to play wherever the team needs me.
“It’s exciting to join a club who narrowly missed out on the play-off final last season. As a player you always want to be fighting at the top of divisions.
“I’ve not met the manager yet but I have spoken to him on the phone. All the lads speak really highly of him and they say he’s a world class coach.
“I’m looking forward to meeting him and getting to work with the rest of the lads.
“I want to play as well as I can while I’m here. At the end of my time here I want to leave the team in the best place possible. If that’s near the top of the table that would be great.”
