David Gomez joins West Brom coaching staff
Pepe Mel today got his wish as former Real Betis man David Gomez joined Albion as first-team coach.
Gomez, who was Mel's fitness and conditioning coach at Betis, will work alongside the Baggies boss, assistant head coach Keith Downing and goalkeeping coach Dean Kiely.
Mel wanted to bring Gomez and former Betis assistant boss Roberto Rios to Albion when he was first appointed but the club initially rejected his request.
They have been looking for an extra staff member to help Mel communicate with his players and Gomez, who is thought to speak good English, has now landed the job.
Mel added: "David was a colleague in Spain and I think it's good for the club, the players and for me that it's been possible for him to join us.
"We will all work hard together on the pitch for West Brom.
"Keith Downing remains my No.2. I am very, very happy with Keith. He's a very good assistant and a very good person.
"Every day that I've been here, Keith has helped me get to know West Brom and the Premier League better."
Sporting and technical Director Richard Garlick said: "Pepe is working in a completely new environment and we've always been open to the idea of him strengthening his backroom staff with someone he knows well.
"I'd like to officially welcome David to the club. He initially joins us until the end of the season and I'm sure he will provide Pepe with valuable support."
