STEVEN Reid is looking forward to playing for Steve Clarke – a man he describes as one of the best coaches in England.

The Baggies defender was one of Roy Hodgson’s key players last season, only missing games as a result of injury.

The ex-Republic of Ireland international is still undergoing rehabilitation to the ankle injury which caused the premature end of his season.

He expects to meet his new gaffer later this week and cannot wait for pre-season training to begin early next month.

“I’ve not come across him personally,” said the 31-year-old.

“I spoke to a few of the lads who have worked for him and he’s very respected in the game, one of the top coaches in Britain.

“It’s nice he’s got the opportunity to finally be a gaffer now.

“I had a brief chat with him on Sunday and I’m going to probably see him later in the week when I go into the training ground to do a little bit of work.

“I look forward to getting going again on July 4.”

One of Clarke’s first tasks as boss will be to begin the recruitment process.

Ben Foster is still very much on the radar following his successful loan spell.