Robert Snodgrass to bolster West Brom's survival fight

The Express & Star exclusively revealed earlier this week that the West Ham midfielder was closing in on a move to The Hawthorns.

Snodgrass underwent his medical yesterday and is understood to have agreed terms on an 18-month deal.

And Allardyce admits he is delighted to add him to his ranks as he works to try and keep Albion in the Premier League.

“As long as the medical goes alright, Robert Snodgrass will be a West Bromwich Albion player,” he said.

“I am absolutely delighted he has chosen to take up the challenge with us and that we will be adding some much needed Premier League experience and quality into the squad.

“I’m delighted he has said yes.

“He is left-footed. We all look for balance.

“I think it’s good to have left-footed players who can produce on that side rather than right-footed players who have to check inside, that can sometimes lose you an opportunity.

“And he’s got experience. He tells me recently he has played in central midfield in a left of a three as well as wide left and wide right.

“He is flexible in terms of the number of the positions he can play which I think is very important. And I’ve heard from many people he is exceptionally good in the dressing room which is a great bonus on top of his ability.”

It is understood Snodgrass will join Albion as a free agent after West Ham reached an agreement to terminate his contract early.

Allardyce was in charge of the Hammers between 2011 and 2015,

And he believes his friendship with West Ham owner David Sullivan – as well as Snodgrass’s friendship with coach James Morrison – were key to the deal.

“Mozza (Morrison) and Robbie (Snodgrass) know each other really well,” the head coach continued.

“Because of his character he became the first name on my list. And past relationships sometimes work in your favour.

“David Sullivan, at West Ham, because of the years we spent together, was a help in moving the situation on.

“I think it’s a fabulous signing. His character in the dressing room will be very important as will his experience and quality on the pitch.

“I am really looking forward to him arriving.

“And if he can help with the team spirit in the squad that’s going to be great.”

While in charge of Bolton, the late Gary Speed was a key player for Allardyce. And the Dudley-born chief hopes Snodgrass can impact the Albion squad in the same way Speed did at Bolton.

“I hope he is like a Gary Speed for me,” the boss added.

“He might be getting on in years but in his mind he still thinks he is 20.

“That means he runs all day, has got great quality and a huge amount of experience.

“Hopefully, that will run off on some of the other players.

“Hopefully, he will lift standards.”