McClean wants to get a-head of the game with Rondon

James McClean believes the sight of him planting the ball onto Salomon Rondon’s head will be a common sight at The Hawthorns this season after vowing to crank up the assists this term.

West Bromwich Albion came away from south London with a season-opening win after Rondon met McClean’s free-kick and headed in what turned out to be the winner against Crystal Palace.

The Republic of Ireland international registered just two assists last term and is not a certain starter under Tony Pulis, who threw him into the fray with 20 minutes to go on Saturday.

 (Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images)

But after laying down an early marker, McClean is confident he can help Rondon improve upon the ten goals he scored in his first season with West Brom.

“Last season I didn’t get as many assists as I would’ve liked,” he said.

“It’s a case of starting the season as I mean to go on in terms of creating opportunities for my team-mates.

“I was pleased to see Salo finish off my free-kick which gave us the win. I nearly got him in a second time at Palace too.

“When you have someone who is good in the air and you can get your delivery right then you’ll always have a chance.

“Hopefully I can help the team out with a few more assists and goals during this campaign.”