Roberto Di Matteo hailed Robert Koren’s superb individual strike against Sheffield Wednesday as the Baggies moved back into the top two – and played down any reported tension between the pair.
After a disappointing first half Di Matteo called upon the services of the Slovenian captain in place of Jerome Thomas. The change worked with Albion looking far more threatening with Wednesday keeper Lee Grant making fine saves from Ishmael Miller, Jonas Olsson, James Morrison and Graham Dorrans before Koren’s contender for goal-of-the-season.
"We created a number of chances in the second half," said the Italian.
"Their goalkeeper made some great saves and the goal that Koren scored was a great goal.
"We probably needed a goal like that to win the game.
"He curled it around with his left foot and I'm very pleased for him.
"I thought the team I picked to start the game was the best one to win it.
"We made the change at half-time and it worked out.
"I don't think the so-called moments of tension between me and Roko are as big as they've been made out to be.
"We have talked a number of times, like I do with many of our players.
"I understand that every player wants to play.
"He's a good player and an intelligent person as well.
"We now have 21 players available and it's about a squad from one game to the other.
"To get over the finishing line, we will need everybody.
"We have to put our individual agendas to one side and believe what we do is best for West Bromwich Albion.
"We try to communicate that to the players and if we are successful it will be a benefit to everybody."
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