Simon Cox decided to stay at Albion during the January transfer window after being convinced a move away would not be in his best interests.
Utility man Cox spoke to Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni to ask whether a move away from The Hawthorns would improve his international chances this summer at Euro 2012.
But the experienced Republic of Ireland manager told Cox he was better fighting for a Premier League place than enjoying regular football in a lower division.
Speculation around the future of Cox has been mounting after he suffered another frustrating spell on the sidelines unable to force his way into the starting XI.
Cox admits he’s found it more difficult to find first team chances to come by this term but opted to grasp his opportunities when they came around.
"I didn't fancy going on loan because at the time I was still on the bench and I was coming on every now and then," said Cox.
"And then my Ireland boss told me to stick around as they didn't need for me to go anywhere to be selected.
"Premier League football is what you want to be playing and throughout January I was playing.
"It was a lot tougher this year to get games.
"I had to be patient and stick around because you never know what's going to happen in football.
"Fitness-wise we run after games anyway but I asked if there was a bit extra I could do so I would be ready for the tournament if selected."
Do you think Cox deserves more starts at The Hawthorns? Have your say here at Baggies Banter.