Branislav Ivanovic ‘ready for the challenge' and has plenty to offer after West Brom sign veteran former Chelsea defender

The Baggies lost their first game back in the top flight

Premier League 2020/21 in numbers

Serbian defender Branislav Ivanovic says he has plenty to offer West Bromwich Albion after the 36-year-old free agent joined the promoted Premier League side on a season-long deal.

Ivanovic made more than 350 appearances for Chelsea and won nine major titles with the London club before leaving for Russian side Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2017.

He returns to England's top flight as Slaven Bilic's sixth signing since West Brom's promotion, following the arrivals of Grady Diangana, Matheus Pereira, Cedric Kipre, David Button and Callum Robinson.

"I'm so happy to be back," Ivanovic told West Brom's website.

"I know Slaven from before. He's amazing and I hope together we're going to be a success. He understands football and looks like a guy who everyone wants to play for.

"I missed English football ... I looked to be back in the previous year but it didn't happen, so now I'm happy to be here and I'll try and do my best. I can give something more. I'm completely different... I'm ready for the challenge."

Ivanovic's arrival is a boost for West Brom, who conceded three goals without reply in a Premier League defeat by Leicester City on Sunday.

They host Harrogate Town in the League Cup later on Wednesday before travelling to Everton in the league on Saturday.

Reuters

[14 September 2020 08:00 · Jack Rathborn]

WOLVES BACK IN FOR MAITLAND-NILES

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The Telegraph report the England international could be persuaded to move to Molineux due to the lure of a feature role in the first team.

That was always the issue under Mikel Arteta, though a storming display in the Community Shield may have changed the Spaniard’s mind on the player. 

[14 September 2020 07:56 · Jack Rathborn]

DIJON STAR EMERGES AS PARTEY ALTERNATIVE

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The Gunners have failed to make Atletico Madrid budge on their stance over Partey, with the Spaniards demanding the full buy-out clause in order to sell - set at £45m.

Leeds and Wolves are also keen, with the player valued at £18.5m.

[14 September 2020 07:52 · Jack Rathborn]

ARSENAL WANT DIJON STAR TO REPLACE MARTINEZ

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The Argentine goalkeeper will join Aston Villa and Mikel Arteta needs a back-up to Bernd Leno, with the Mail reporting that the Icelandic shot-stopper is now the prime candidate.

An unused substitute in England’s win over Iceland, the 25-year-old made 14 appearances for the Ligue 1 side last season but is not involved so far this term.