West Brom boss Tony Pulis admitted he was staggered by the decision to stage a round of Premier League fixtures on the same day as the transfer window closing.
Jan. 31 is often a hectic time for clubs as they look to tie up signings that could make a difference for the rest of the season but several top-flight managers were forced to divert attention away from the transfer market to focus on their latest match.
Pulis was able to complete the loan signing of defender Marc Wilson before the 11 p.m. deadline -- after watching his Baggies side claim a 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough -- but he could not see the reasoning for having to play a game on such a pivotal day.