Thomas: Gonzalo Jara will be key for West Bromwich Albion

Jun 19 2010 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

GONZALO Jara wil be key to Albion’s Premier League campaign, according to team-mate Jerome Thomas.

The Baggies utility player missed the last three months of the season due to a broken toe sustained in the FA Cup game at Reading.

But Jara is fit again and a member of Chile’s World Cup squad, coming as a substitute in their opening Group H game against Honduras.

Thomas has been impressed by what he’s seen of the former Colo Colo player.

And he feels Jara will have a huge part to play for the club during 2010/11.

“Gonzo looked good and it was hard for him because he’s had an injury,” said Thomas. “It’s good to see him involved in the World Cup. He could be a huge player for us next season. He’s an asset because he can play anywhere.

“I think next season we’ll see him at right-back, defensive midfielder either as his own or as a two, and he can even play at centre-half for us which he did for Chile before we signed him.

“He’s going to be a key person for our squad.”

Meanwhile, Chris Wood believes his World Cup experience will help him settle into the top flight.

The New Zealander said: “I do think playing in the World Cup will help me in the Premier League next season.

“Most of the teams here in South Africa have Premier League players in their ranks.”