Baggies closing in on Peter Odemwingie deal

Roberto Di Matteo today tipped Nigeria striker Peter Odemwingie to lift Albion after their nightmare start to the Premier League.

The Hawthorns head coach confirmed the 29-year-old is virtually a Baggies player after agreeing a transfer believed to be worth around £2m from Lokomotiv Moscow.

And the boss hailed the talents of Odemwingie and claimed he will give the camp a psychological boost.

"We've agreed terms with Peter Odemwingie," said Di Matteo. "We are still sorting out his visa so he's not here yet but hopefully he'll join us as soon as possible.

"That will give the players a lift as well. He's got a great CV and he's a good player.

"We need a few new faces and it lifts everyone when you see a player like him coming in. I'm pleased he is joining us because I'm sure he will be able to help us."

Di Matteo confirmed he remains keen to sign Cameroon winger Somen Tchoyi but Albion are still battling red tape to complete his move from Red Bull Salzburg.

And he refused to be drawn on the prospects of a new bid for Portsmouth midfielder Marc Wilson, who was the subject of a rejected £2.5m offer last week.