Zoltan Gera pinpoints Steve Clarke's 'trust' in players for West Brom success

The Baggies have enjoyed a better than expected season

West Brom manager Steve Clarke (GETTY IMAGES)

Zoltan Gera has hailed the impact made by West Brom boss Steve Clarke in his first senior managerial role and believes the “trust” he has shown in his players has been key to his success.

Midfielder Gera has played under five different managers in Gary Megson, Bryan Robson, Tony Mowbray, Roy Hodgson and now Clarke during two spells at the Hawthorns.

Gera acknowledges the challenging task facing former Liverpool and Chelsea number two Clarke when Hodgson left to take charge of England last summer after 18 months of success.

But the Hungary international, currently recovering from a knee ligament injury, has been impressed with the way Clarke has adapted to life as a number one.

He said: "The club always finds good managers and I've been happy with each one but this is a different era because we are now a stable Premier League team.

"I'm sure it was difficult for the manager after Roy left but he has done a fantastic job in his first year as a number one.

"I think he has a very good future and the one thing he never does is panic. Some managers do but he always trusts in the players, which is good.

"He says the right things in the dressing room before kick-off, at half-time and after matches."

Gera is set to return for pre-season training after his second serious knee setback in just over 12 months.

He said: "The most important thing is your mindset being right and every little success gives you more confidence."

PA