Albion’s latest international Jonas Olsson has revealed his delight at representing his country for the first time. The giant defender made his Swedish debut against Belarus last Wednesday and helped keep a clean-sheet during a 1-0 victory in Minsk.
The 27-year-old revealed his lifelong ambition to represent his country at the highest level after achieving 23 caps for the Under-21 side. Albion’s vice captain admitted his initial nerves before kick-off but was glad they quickly eased after the game had started.
"It's always been a dream of mine to play for my country,” said Olsson.
"There were two games last week.
"The first game was against Bosnia and I didn't play in that.
"But I went to Minsk and played against Belarus.
"I played 90 minutes, it was nice to get a win and a clean-sheet is always good.
"Now I'm older I can deal with nerves - but playing for the national team is special.
"I've been dreaming about it all my career and you know you have to perform when you get the chance otherwise you have other players knocking on the door behind you.
"I was a bit nervous but once I was on the field I felt pretty comfortable."
Olsson also welcomed the arrival of new signing Pablo Ibanez to The Hawthorns and revealed how the added competition for places will help him raise his own game.
"I know he's played a lot for the Spanish national team and he has been at Atletico Madrid for a number of years," he continued.
"If you grow up playing in the Spanish national team it is a good indication you're a good player.
"I'm looking forward to playing with him in the team.
"All good players are welcome and I like the added competition for places - it makes you raise your game.
"I'm looking forward to seeing how the squad shapes up and seeing all the guys again - and all the new guys."