ALBION boss Sami Hyypia has put additions to his backroom team on hold to concentrate on strengthening the squad.

The Finnish giant has given a vote of confidence to Nathan Jones and is in no rush to confirm his No. 2 or other additions to the coaching staff.

Hyypia's predecessor Oscar Garcia agreed to the appointment of Spanish-speaking former Albion defender Jones as his assistant.

The Welshman is being retained by ex-Bayer Leverkusen chief Hyypia as first team coach. Hyypia said: "The first priority is to get a squad together to have a chance to be successful in the Championship.

"In Germany it was a different set-up. I need to get to know the people here. I've met Nathan Jones already and I liked what he said.

"He's very professional, his knowledge about football is good and he will work hard for the cause.

"I need a few other people in backroom staff but I'm not in a hurry. There are a lot of good coaches at the club already."

Albion still have the up-and-coming Mark Mason to work with the goalkeepers following the departure of Ruben Martinez along with fitness coach Juan Torrijo, who have teamed back up with Oscar on his return to Maccabi Tel Aviv.