Olsson thanks Albion for Premier League chance

Swedish giant Jonas Olsson has thanked Albion for making his boyhood dreams come true after joining from NEC Nijmegen for £800,000. The 25-year-old grew up in Sweden watching English top-flight football and is determined to repay Tony Mowbray's faith after being brought from Dutch football.

The signing is somewhat of a coup for the Baggies with a number of clubs from England and the continent interested in signing the 6ft4in defender.

"There was a lot of interest in the spring and also during pre-season from England, which made it a little bit difficult to focus," Olsson said.

"It was great when West Brom finally came in.

"In Sweden you grow up watching English football on TV and it's been a dream to play in England since I was little.

"Most Swedish players are focusing on getting to the Premier League because it's their dream.

"I'm grateful to be here and I'm going to do everything in my power to make the best of it.

"I know this is a club with a great history and they have also made some great signings like Scott Carson and Gianni Zuiverloon.

"It's a big honour to sign for West Brom."

Olsson faces a tough test to break his way in the Baggies starting XI with Neil Clement, Leon Barnett, Abdoulaye Meite and deadline-day loan signing Ryan Donk all competing for a place. However Olsson believes his football development in Holland will help him push his way into Tony Mowbray's thoughts.

"I had three seasons in the Eredivisie and that league is all about focusing on development," he added.

"Every team is keen on trying to play football and trying to play out of difficult positions.

"It's good preparation for the Premier League.

"But competition for places is strong here and I'm going to do my best to earn my place in the team."