Robert Koren:West Brom can reap rewards

Oct 6 2009 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

“We all agreed that we needed to put that right at Preston and I think we did.

“The Championship is more physical, aggressive and if you’re not ready for it then you won’t succeed.

“You get no time on the ball and perhaps the hardest thing is playing every two or three games.

“For that you need a big squad and you need to be mentally right, as well as physically. You need to be alert.

“There is a great opportunity for us ahead and we hope to be celebrating at the end of it.”

Koren has been a little frustrated this season from his own point of view.

He was dropped to the bench for Saturday’s game at Deepdale and, when he has started, has generally been picked to play in a wide role, which he admits is not his favoured position.

Koren, though respectful of head coach Roberto Di Matteo’s team selection, admits he prefers a more central role, which he usually occupies for his national side.

“From my own point of view I think I have played okay,” he added.

“I have been on the wing but I prefer to play in the middle, which the gaffer knows. But I will play where the gaffer tells me to play and always do my best for the team, which is the most important thing.”