West Brom veteran ready to help next generation

And his new one-year deal, on reduced terms as a previous big earner in Albion’s squad, could be extended by another 12 months if Bartley triggers appearance-related clauses. The defender turned 33 and clocked up a 200th appearance in blue and white stripes in the play-offs in May.

Bartley believes Albion can improve on last season’s run to the play-offs next time around under Carlos Corberan after what the head coach described as a “summer of change” – in which Bartley has remained a key constant.

“I’m really happy to have signed a new deal at a place I know so well and have so many strong relationships and good memories,” said the defender, who arrived from Swansea following relegation in 2018.

“I’ve been at the Albion for six years and I really enjoy being here. We had a really good season last year and I really believe we can build on that under the manager this term.

“The gaffer has trusted me to play the majority of matches since he joined the club and that’s something I’m really grateful for. I’m determined to keep performing at my highest possible level and I’m confident I can do that in the coming campaign.”

Bartley’s fellow out-of-contract defender Cedric Kipre, who last season swept up at the end-of-season awards, will not join his colleague in extending his stay at The Hawthorns.

Kipre, like midfielder Alex Mowatt and goalkeeper Ted Cann who both also signed new deals yesterday, was offered a contract at the end of May with Albion desperate to retain the French-born stopper.

But the former Wigan man has interest from several other countries including Turkey, France and Germany and has opted to explore his options elsewhere.

The Baggies are set to recruit Norwegian defender Torbjorn Heggem to cover Kipre’s departure and it is understood academy prospect Caleb Taylor, 21, is poised to play a more involved role next season. Highly-regarded Taylor is an example of somebody Bartley is excited to help develop.

“I’ve really enjoyed playing alongside some of the other defenders we’ve had here during my time at the club,” Bartley continued.

“I’ve seen so many of them flourish and I’d like to play a part in seeing that happen once again with some of the younger lads we’ve got in the squad at the moment.”

Corberan said of Bartley: “From the moment I arrived here, Kyle has been an important leader within the squad.

“His contribution last season, playing the vast majority of our fixtures, was one of the key factors in us achieving a play-off spot.

“In a summer of change, it is important to retain the values and leadership that define this club, and Kyle will undoubtedly help us to achieve that.”

Midfielder Mowatt, 29, has also been rewarded for a fine campaign last time out. He said: “That’s three times in the play-offs now for me, but it’s always nice to be in and around those places. We’ve got a strong group, some good players and with a few new signings as well I can’t see why we can’t be in and around it again.”