JONAS Olsson faces Stoke admitting their progress as a Premier League club is one Albion must aspire to match.
The Potters were promoted with Albion in 2008. But while the Baggies were relegated at the first attempt, Stoke went on to finish 12th.
Twelve months later they were 11th before ending last season 13th and reaching the FA Cup final to earn a place in this year’s Europa League.This weekend’s game has been put back until Sunday due to last night’s game against Thun.
Olsson feels Albion must evolve in the same vein as their Midlands’ rivals.
“Stoke have shown what can be achieved for a club of our size,” the Swede told the Birmingham Mail.
“What they have achieved is an inspiration to all of us who have just been promoted or are still trying to establish ourselves in the Premier League.
“It’s the same with Fulham. They and Stoke have shown what can be done with smaller clubs.
“If they can get into Europe and, in Fulham’s case, almost win the trophy, then it gives us all hope.”
Olsson is under no illusions how important Sunday’s game is given the Premier League goes into a fortnight’s international break after this weekend’s games.
The Baggies are still looking for their first points.
“It’s all very well saying how well we played against Manchester United and Chelsea but there is big disappointment because we lost,” continued Olsson.
“It means nothing if you lose matches.
“People can say how well we played but we have no points when you look at the table.
“We want to go into the break with nice thoughts and a smile on our faces. That’s not going to happen if we don’t beat Stoke.”
Sunday’s game will be Olsson’s first meeting with Tony Pulis’ men since he smashed a framed photo of the Brittania Stadium in last season’s game at Stoke.
Olsson offered his apologies after the game and paid towards the damage.
He added: “I have no grudge. I apologised afterwards and it was really a stupid thing for me to do.
“It came out of frustration. I said sorry and paid towards the costs but it really was something that I did in the heat of the moment and regretted afterwards.”
