West Bromwich Albion

Gareth McAuley "completely relaxed" over West Bromwich Albion future

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 20 December 2016

West Bromwich Albion defender Gareth McAuley insists that he is not worried about his future beyond the end of his current contract, which expires next summer.

West Bromwich Albion defender Gareth McAuley has insisted that he is not worried about his future beyond the end of the current season.

The 37-year-old's contract with the Baggies is due to expire next summer, and so far there have been no discussions regarding an extension.

However, McAuley is refusing to look further ahead than his side's upcoming Boxing Day match with Arsenal, although he has confirmed that he will not retire at the end of the season.

"I'm completely relaxed about it. I will play football next year, I know that, where that is we'll sort that out later on in the season. You can never get too far ahead," he told reporters.

"I'm only thinking about it now because I've been asked but I'm just thinking about Arsenal and two games in 48 hours at New Year. Going forward you never know what's round the corner and I've never been one for planning too far ahead. I'll enjoy it and I'll see where we end up.

"I'm enjoying myself. One day my body is going to turn around and say 'no, you can't do it anymore'. I will just enjoy it until that happens. I know myself now I will be able play next year. It's little things, like playing the games and not having any reactions or extra fatigue. Physically, touch wood, I'm still in a good place."

McAuley has made almost 200 appearances for West Brom since joining in 2011, including all 17 of their Premier League outings this season.