One in, another out

09 July 2003

At last, a signing! Albion have completed the signing of Austrian and/or Swiss right back Bernt Haas from Sunderland for £400,000 plus "add-ons". Haas began training today with the squad and will travel with them to Denmark as he tries to make an immediate claim for a first team spot.

Sadly, that claim will have become easier following the shock news that Igor Balis has retired from the game and will be moving back to Slovakia with his family. Igor's future with Albion was subject to him getting a work permit anyway, which may have caused a problem now that he has retired from International football, but he has now developed tinnitis - a condition that causes a constant ringing in his ears.

Clearly those 45 minute spells running up and down the right hand side of the pitch close to Megson's constant verbal barrage have taken their toll. Pray that Clement won't be next!

Our condolences to Igor, who has made a memorable contribution to the side in his time here. We hope the condition improves and he can enjoy his retirement back home.

Previous Stories:

  08 July 2003:  New shirt launched

  02 July 2003:  Haas: Sunderland agree fee

  30 June 2003:  Roberts wants out

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