Interviews

De Zerbi: We can fight for European spot

Head coach upbeat after draw at Palace on Saturday.

By Charlie Hanson • 11 February 2023

By Paul Hazlewood
Roberto De Zerbi applauds the travelling support at Selhurst Park.

Roberto De Zerbi believes his team showed that they’re capable of fighting for a place in Europe after dominating the 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.

Albion conceded from the only shot on target they faced and De Zerbi was delighted with his team’s display as they mustered 17 shots and enjoyed 75% of the possession.

“We lost two points, but we know football,” Roberto reflected. “We were unlucky, but I am really proud of the performance and my players for the quality of their play.

“We had many chances to score and we made some mistakes when we conceded the goal, as well as when we could have scored. But the other things, I am happy.

01:55

MA+ members & STH only - Log-in required

An existing MyAlbion+ membership or season ticket is needed to view this content. Please note that new memberships take 24 hours to be active to view, registering today for Luton Town match streaming will not be valid in time.

De Zerbi: Only one team on the pitch

“We played a fantastic game. We didn’t win but in terms of quality of play and personality there was only one team on the pitch. I always respect the opponent, but my team was fantastic today.

“We can fight for a place in Europe. We showed until this moment a big potential, we believe in ourselves and we want to try to arrive in that position.”

Solly March put Albion in front at Selhurst Park when he volleyed in from Pervis Estupinan’s superb delivery, but James Tomkins equalised after Rob Sanchez dropped a free-kick into the box.

“It was clear that he [Sanchez] made the mistake, but the coach makes more mistakes!," added De Zerbi. “We have to understand our potential, we have not resched our potential yet.”