Interviews

Veltman ready for Tangerine test

Dutch defender knows that today’s visitors are capable of causing an upset.

By Alex Stedman • 23 January 2021

By Paul Hazlewood
Joel Veltman doesn't want Albion to underestimate their opponents this afternoon.

Joel Veltman says Albion should be wary of becoming another of Blackpool's giant-killing victims.

The League One side arrive at the Amex today in the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup having knocked out West Brom in the last round. 

He said, “They'll be ready to try and cause an upset.

“Sometimes teams can sit back and look for some counter attacks and we may have a lot of the ball, so we need to be ready for that.

By Bennett Dean
The Dutchman has made 18 appearances in all competitions for Albion so far this season.

“They will be physical and it's a big game for them. They beat Premier League opposition in the last round and so we have to approach it with full focus.”

Albion were 4-3 winners on penalties away to Newport County in the third round when Jason Steele saved a remarkable four spot-kicks in the shootout.

“The FA Cup is the biggest cup in this country and it's something special - you always want to go as far as you can, it's such a historic competition. 

“The game in the last round was a bit different and quite tough. I only played the last 15 minutes, but I was number nine for the penalties and Webby was at number seven, so it nearly got down to me!

13:47

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Potter's Blackpool press conference

“It was a difficult game and teams from the lower divisions will always give everything and fight really well so we are very respectful of Blackpool and the threat they have.”

The second half of the season promises to be hectic and Veltman likes that Graham Potter is able to use his squad depth in cup ties. 

“In these matches we can use the whole group and I really like that.

“You see with someone like Alexis Mac Allister who played Carabao Cup matches earlier in the season and now he is really growing into the side in the Premier League and has a lot of confidence.

“Everybody is feeling sharp and knows that if they play they have to be at the top of their game.”