West Bromwich Albion boss Steve Clarke admits the international break has been ideal for bedding down his new players.
Stephane Sessegnon and Victor Anichebe were joined by Marseille midfielder Morgan Amalfitano and goalkeeper Lee Camp in signing for Albion on transfer deadline day and Clarke admits last week's international break bought them some time to bed in.
"This year the break came at a good time," said the Scot, whose side have just one point from their first three Barclays Premier League games.
"Last year we were a bit disappointed it came when it did because we had started well. This year we haven't started well.
"It's nice to have got a little breather and done some good work in training, with a number of boys away on international duty.
"It was a busy transfer deadline day when we brought in some new players to help the group and I've managed to have some of them around in training to start working towards what will hopefully be a successful season.
"Since deadline day when we had Lee Camp, Morgan Amalfitano and Victor Anichebe come in and they've been able to train with the group, which is good. Stephane has been away with his country.
"We're definitely in a better place as a squad because the squad is stronger now. It's competitive. Now we just need to get them working together and picking up points."
