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Aussie star's praise for returning duo

Albion goalkeeper Maty Ryan was delighted to see Ezequiel Schelotto and Leandro Trossard return to the side in Saturday’s victory over Everton.

By James Hilsum • 29 October 2019

By Paul Hazlewood
Mathew Ryan

Trossard came off the bench to make his first appearance since August, following a groin problem, while Schelotto returned to action following a long-term knee injury, and the goalkeeper believes the duo will have big parts to play in the coming weeks.

He said, “Just as the transfer window closed, some players left and we got quite a few injuries, so the squad was looking quite thin after being quite big throughout pre-season.

“During our time in the Premier League, we’ve built up more depth, and that has been the case again this season.

"We’ve had important players coming back, which creates more competition for places, and ultimately it will raise every individual’s levels, which will also raise the team’s standards.

“The manager has shown that he gives chances to everyone and we’re all on a level playing field. If you’re working hard in training, you’ll get rewarded. Credit goes to Schelotto for the approach to his craft, his determination and his ability to overcome a big setback to get back on the pitch.

“Saturday was a nice reward for him, and I’m sure he’ll play a big role during the rest of the season.”

02:11

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Highlights: Albion 3 Everton 2

Trossard played a key role himself in the last-gasp winning goal against the Toffees, as his ball into the box resulted in Lucas Digne scoring an own goal, and Ryan felt the side deserved their element of fortune.

“We got the result in the end; it was quite frantic and it wasn’t our best performance, but credit to Everton for making it difficult for us.

“Over the course of the season you get decisions that go for you and some that don’t, but it will all even itself out. We had the wrong end of it [against Aston Villa] and Saturday went for us. I’m so proud of the boys’ character, and the grit and determination they showed to get over the line and get the win.”

By Paul Hazlewood
Maty Ryan in action against Everton.

Saturday’s victory saw Albion claim back-to-back wins at home, and Ryan stressed the importance of maintaining the recent upturn in form at the Amex.

“Before the Tottenham game it had been a while since we’d won at home, so we wanted to turn it around and make the Amex a fortress.

“We want to take advantage of the fans being an extra man for us, and you do that by getting the results, so to have two wins on the bounce against good opposition is a big confidence boost for us.

“The fans will take a lift from that result, and from the Tottenham one as well, moving on to this week.”