Scott Carson committed to West Brom for the long-haul

Nov 22 2009 by Christopher Lepkowski, Sunday Mercury

“I knew I had to get away from that kind of mentality.”

Carson gave an insight into the kind of life led by loanees.

Far from embracing the notion of glamour, the nomadic existence is not an easy one to get used to – especially when children and family are involved.

He reckons that finally putting down roots in one place can only help his performances.

“It’s not great being a loan player,” added Carson.

“People assume it’s a carefree existence but it’s anything but. It can be unsettling and quite difficult for players.

“For starters there are your domestic arrangements. You’d be in a rented house so you couldn’t make it home as you’d like it to be.

“Kids kept having to move schools so I knew sacrifices have to be made. I knew I had to do it but the age I’m at now, with kids too, I knew I couldn’t keep hiking around the country.

“For me to play as well as I can I know I need to be settled at home.

“Last year I was only just getting settled but I love coming to training every day. It’s so important to be happy at a club and feel settled. There’s only so many times you can move. It was something I could deal with when I was younger because I was young and needed games.

“But I’ve played more than 100 games and I’m learning. I’m still young and I’m still learning, but I don’t make the same mistakes that I used to.

“I’m happy at the club and settled. I think that’s helping my performances.”

Jonathan Greening’s departure to Fulham opened the door for a new captain earlier this season.

Carson was surprised, but equally, honoured to be handed the role.

He feels it has helped him improve his overall performances.

“When the gaffer spoke to me and asked if I wanted to be captain, I was delighted to get the chance,” he continued.

“For him to put his faith in me is a big positive and I’m very grateful for that, and I hope I can repay him.

“It’s a great honour to captain this club and something I’ve always looked at doing at some time in my career.

“It brings different qualities out. I’ve got more responsibility now.

“We’ve come into the dressing room after a defeat, you look around see players disheartened. That’s where I have to step in and try to help them.

“You have to come into the training ground hoping to lift people. I still enjoy bantering with the lads and doing things I shouldn’t but I know that you have responsibilities as a captain and I’m enjoying that. It’ll make me a better player.”