Boss - Hoefkens must perform

Mowbray says player must show off his talent

Last updated: 27th November 2008

Boss - Hoefkens must perform

Hoefkens: Voiced disquiet

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West Brom manager Tony Mowbray says Carl Hoefkens needs to perform on the pitch after the right-back voiced his disquiet at not getting regular first-team action at The Hawthorns.

The Belgian played a major part in the Baggies' rise from the Championship but has started just twice this term after losing his place to summer signing Gianni Zuiverloon.

This has caused the 30-year-old to admit that he may need to look elsewhere for first-team football and he has been linked with a move to Ipswich.

While Mowbray has not spoken to the player about his future, he says Hoefkens needs to perform on the pitch to show off his talent to both try and get into the side, as well as secure a possible move away.

The Baggies boss told the Birmingham Mail: "I haven't seen the quotes and Carl should come and see me about issues like that.

Understand

"I understand that footballers want to play and if they are his thoughts, so be it.

"The bottom line with any players who are unhappy or not playing in the team on a regular basis is that the phone has to ring about them.

"We are not advertising them so it's about their talent.

"Carl played in the reserves and there are always lots of people watching when the reserves are playing.

"All players who are not in the side or want to play more regularly have to perform when they get an opportunity in the first team or the reserve team to make sure the phone rings.

"If we think it's right for the club and the player we will consider the options. I don't think they are unhappy because Carl has never told me that."

Wigan game

Hoefkens is expected to be on the bench again for the Baggies' crucial trip to Wigan on Saturday.

Looking forward to the game, Mowbray added: "We'll go and give it just as much effort to try and get a positive result.

"It's another difficult game because Wigan are having a tough time themselves.

"But when you look at their team-sheet they have got a lot of pace and experience in certain areas of the pitch.

"It will be a tough game but one, if we're ready for it, we can get something from."