Hodgson won't be spending big

Hodgson won't be spending big

Published May. 13, 2011 3:15 p.m. ET

Hodgson held talks with club owner-chairman Jeremy Peace earlier this week about possible transfer targets and how much money he will have to spend. A run of 16 points from 10 games under Hodgson has reversed Albion's trend of yo-yoing between the Premier League and the Championship. But Hodgson does not anticipate vast sums of money being available although he will look to strengthen his squad. He said: "It was a discussion with the chairman (Peace) we are going to have regularly regarding what our plans are, what our targets are, what could possibly change between this season and next season. "Everyone thinks that meetings with chairman are going to be about the manager coming out with a big sack over his shoulder like Santa Claus. "I must say I never went in there with a sack expecting it to be filled. I expect the budget for the club, which is already high, to be retained or even strengthened slightly. "There is not going to be vast differences, because that is not available. "But I am hoping we can continue along the same lines as we have been doing. "If there are any players out there which we think will help us become better, we would hope we have a chance to go and get them." Hodgson is looking for Albion to establish themselves in the top flight ahead of Saturday's home clash with Everton. He said: "I am pleased that West Bromwich Albion will be staying in the Premier League and pleased for these group of players, this club and people who work at the club. "I think the club is a good one and I think it is great they we can have another crack at the Premier League next year. "I am rather hoping we can stay in it next year and the club can grow in strength for every year that we do survive. "It was nice to be safe with three games to go but it is important we do well in the remaining couple of matches." Hodgson has reiterated his belief 15-goal leading scorer Peter Odemwingie will remain at Albion for next season. He said: "There is always that possibility of clubs coming in but we will cross that bridge when we come to it. "I believe Peter is happy here. He has a good contract with us. He has a long contract with us. "As far as I am concerned, I am counting on Peter Odemwingie to be a West Bromwich Albion player next year and it will take a lot for us to release him, that's for sure."

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