Alzate: I want to be at my best for Colombia

Steven Alzate joked that he hopes to keep Alexis Mac Allister quiet should the two face each other in World Cup Qualifying action next week.

The Colombia international could take on Mac Allister’s Argentina on Tuesday, although Albion’s number ten is expected to miss the fixture.

First on La Tricolor’s radar though is a crunch match against Peru on Friday.

“We’re fourth in our group and the top four qualify so as it stands we’re doing well enough, but we need to do a bit of work to cross the line,” Alzate explained. “We’ve got Peru who are level on points with us, so it’s a big game.

“I want to show the team and the country what I can do. Hopefully we can win both games because it’s tight in our qualifying group.

“I am hoping to play against Alexis – I want to keep him in my back pocket! It will be an interesting experience if it happens.”

The 23-year-old could make his first appearance for his country since October 2020, having started Albion’s last two Premier League games after his return from injury.

““It’s an honour to represent your country, especially in World Cup Qualifiers, it means a lot to me and my family. It’s been a while since I’ve been called up so I am really excited.

“I grew up in Islington and I had been to Colombia a few times when I growing up, but I hadn’t been for a few years before I got my first call-up. I enjoy going there - the vibe is completely different and people are really cheerful.

“I felt like I fitted in there even though I didn’t grow up in Colombia. After a while there though it’s nice to come back to a bit of peace and tranquillity! The Colombia fans recognise me and I can’t wait to score a goal for them – that will mean a huge amount to me and my family.”

Colombia take on Peru on Friday (9pm) in Barranquilla before facing Argentina in Cordoba on Tuesday.