Giant Swedish defender Jonas Olsson believes the Baggies should show no fear next season against the Premier League big-guns at The Hawthorns. Albion’s vice-captain has played a major part in helping the Baggies make an immediate return to the Premier League in the heart of the defence.
Olsson was part of the side relegated under Tony Mowbray where the Baggies made a number of changes when playing against sides challenging towards the top of the table. However the solid Swede believes Roberto Di Matteo should pick his strongest side at all times next season and hopes Albion can cause an upset – especially at The Hawthorns.
“You always hear that against the big teams you have nothing to lose," said Olsson.
"For me, you have three points to lose in every game.
"At The Hawthorns we can beat anyone.
"I think the line is thin between thinking we've got nothing to lose and we've lost before we start.
"We're going into it with a winning mentality from this year and we're in the winning mood.
"Why can't we beat teams like that?"
The former NEC Nijmegen defender is hoping the Baggies can take inspiration from neighbours Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wanderers who survived in the Premier League this season. But the no-nonsense 27-year-old admits the Baggies must learn from the mistakes which saw them relegated by three points the last time they were in the top flight.
"We conceded too many goals last time and didn't score enough -that equation doesn't add up," he added.
"We could do a lot of things better but we also need to have in mind that we weren't that far away last time.
"We need to still play our game but realise also that it's one step up and we're playing against better players and better teams.
"Everyone has to raise themselves a few per cent and the team performance will be better.
"Wolves and Blues are an inspiration.
"If they can do it, why can't we?"