Hodgson wants early decision on Foster

West Brom head coach Roy Hodgson wants an early decision on whether Birmingham are prepared to sell keeper Ben Foster after his season on loan at the Hawthorns.

Foster was allowed to make the temporary switch to Albion after Blues were relegated from the Barclays Premier League last May and he has impressed Hodgson but the Baggies chief hopes to find out whether he can bid for Foster on a permanent basis before promotion contenders Birmingham know which division they will be in next season.

When asked if a deal can be completed, Hodgson said: "It will depend on Birmingham and how they see the situation. As far as I'm aware these discussions will have to be sooner or later because we need a keeper for next season."

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