Robert Koren's thanks for World Cup

Departing Albion midfielder Robert Koren has thanked the Baggies for helping him live his World Cup dream.

Koren arrived in South Africa yesterday as captain of the Slovenia squad and was full of praise for the Baggies' role in helping him land the role.

The 29-year-old is leaving the Hawthorns after Albion decided not to active a one-year option in his contract.

But the national team captain was delighted to force his way back into the team for the second half of their Championship promotion campaign and nail down his World Cup spot.

He said: "I have left West Bromwich now but I am very grateful to them that I was able to play first-team football and stay with the Slovenian national team.

"Had I been out of the team then who knows if I would have kept my place. But the manager picked me and I am glad I was able to keep my place for my club and country.

"It's true that at the start of last season everything wasn't normal, but after the New Year everything got better for me.

"I played a lot of games, helped the team get up and that helped me with my confidence, so I am ready now for the World Cup."