West Brom boss Tony Mowbray says he was surprised to hear that full-back Carl Hoefkens is considering making a move elsewhere due to his lack of involvement at the Hawthorns. The Belgian international was widely linked with a move to the Blues earlier today.

Asked last week about the possibility of making a move away from the Premier League strugglers, Hoefkens said: "That is definitely a consideration. It is very important for me at this stage of my career to be playing and enjoying my football.”

Ex-Town coach Mowbray has hardly used the 30-year-old this season, but says he is unaware of the defender's frustrations: "I haven't seen the quotes and Carl should come and see me about issues like that. I understand footballers want to play and if they are his thoughts, so be it.

"The bottom line with any players who are unhappy or not playing in the team on a regular basis is that the phone has to ring about them. We are not advertising them so it's about their talent.

"Carl played in the reserves and there are always lots of people watching when the reserves are playing.

"All players who are not in the side or want to play more regularly have to perform when they get an opportunity in the first team or the reserves to make sure the phone rings.

"If we think it's right for the club and the player we will consider the options. I don't think they are unhappy because Carl has never told me that.”

In addition to Town, Russian side Spartak Moscow have also been linked.

The emergency loan window closes today with Town not adding further to their squad.

Meanwhile, the reduction in VAT from 17.5% to 15% could see matchday ticket prices drop at Portman Road. A club spokesman said: "The situation is being discussed about prices for the rest of the season.”

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