Gardner’s new deal has received a cold reception amongst Baggies supporters.
Crystal Palace’s Andros Townsend in action with West Bromwich Albion’s Craig Gardner
Several West Bromwich Albion fans have taken to Twitter after the club announced on their official website that Craig Gardner has signed a new two-year deal at the Hawthorns.
The 29-year-old’s previous contract with the Baggies had been set to expire at the end of the season, but the club have confirmed on their official website that he is now set to stay until 2018, with an option for another year.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis
The news has received a frosty reception amongst supporters. Gardner was initially a key man for West Brom following his move from Sunderland, and while he only made one less appearance last season than the 35 he made the previous term, he started just 20 times in the Premier League.
And his move towards the periphery of the squad has seemingly continued this season. He has made five appearances so far, but has started just twice and only been on the pitch for 184 minutes so appears to be considerably less important to Tony Pulis’ plans.
Tottenham’s Mousa Dembele in action with West Brom’s Craig Gardner
With just one assist and no goals to speak of in the top flight this term, Gardner’s new deal is perhaps a surprise given that he is now reaching an age where many begin to become less influential in games.
And with Baggies supporters surely hoping that they can land another Nacer Chadli during the January window, they may fear that Gardner’s extension may have an impact on the funds they have to work with.
West Bromwich Albion’s Craig Gardner in action with Middlesbrough’s Adam Forshaw
Here is some of the less than positive reaction to the news…
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