Mel will take over as West Brom head coach on 20 January

New West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel claims he has been dreaming about managing in Premier League for some time.

The Baggies appointed Mel on Thursday as their new head coach on an 18-month deal to replace Steve Clarke, who was sacked on 14 December following a fourth straight Premier League defeat.

In an interview with Spanish radio station Cadena Ser, Mel described his delight over taking on a new challenge in England.

"Managing in the Premier League is something that everybody dreams about. The Premier League attract everyone. This is a dream come true.

As a footballer I had no level to play in the Premier League but now I hope that as a coach I can earn the right to make a long career here."

"I wanted to be in the Premier League. I did not mind about the team but for one month West Brom have been the one that has shown interest for my services."

Mel's negotiations to become the new Baggies boss initially collapsed last week because he wanted to bring in his own team of backroom staff, but he has finally agreed to West Brom's terms to have Keith Downing as his assistant.

"My team staff is very important for me. I love them. They have helped me a lot at Betis but West Brom just wanted me. The club have a special structure and they want me to have their own staff to help me. I hope my own staff join me in May for next season.

"This season West Brom are in the middle of the table but the attracting thing is that they want to build an important project for the future".

Mel, 50, was sacked by La Liga strugglers Betis in December after three years in charge. Before his dismissal he led the Andalucia-based team back into La Liga as Segunda Division champions and last season guided them to seventh place in the league.