Publications
Partners
Cape Town - West Bromwich Albion captain Darren Fletcher believes the downward spiral of Aston Villa is a huge chance for his side to cement their status as the biggest club in West Midlands.
With Birmingham City in the Championship for several seasons and Aston Villa's inevitable relegation, Albion will be the only representative of the Black Country area in England's top flight.
The former Manchester United midfielder sees this as an opportunity to attract young football supporters in the area to increase their fan base.
"If we can push the boat out a little bit, we might get some new fans that are brought up in and around Birmingham," the 32-year-old said during a open training session.
"West Brom might be the team to support because we 're the highest up the league and we're in the Premier League.
"I think there's the opportunity there for the club to really push that statement out there next season and recruit new fans.
"It's important because they're going to be the next generation of supporters," the Scotland national team captain added.
"They're going to carry the club forward in the area as we look to be next season the only team that's going to be in the Premier League."
