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De Zerbi: I had no doubts about my players

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Head coach reflects on Sunday's 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

By Bruce Talbot • 10 March 2024

By Paul Hazlewood
Delight for Roberto De Zerbi after Albion secured three vital points.

Head coach Roberto De Zerbi had no doubts that his players would produce the reaction he wanted in the win over Nottingham Forest.

Albion moved up to eighth after a 1-0 victory at the Amex and De Zerbi said, “I’m very happy for the reaction to Thursday but I had no any doubts about the human quality of my players.

“We were suffering after Thursday evening and we showed fantastic pride and character, but that is not a surprise from this group of players. The three points are important and so is the reaction after three defeats, the last two very tough. It is important to keep our position in the table and the level of these players is incredibly high.

“The challenge is to do our best in every game. We can play better and have played better in the past. At the moment we are not perfect in terms of physical condition and number of players, so I am pleased with what we are showing.

By Paul Hazlewood
Jakub Moder had an impressive first Premier League start since April 2022.

“I think we played a good game, especially in the first 35 minutes. After our goal we suffered sometimes more but we only conceded two shots and [they were] not clear chances for them to score. Now we have to prepare for Roma and play a serious game.”

De Zerbi praised the performance of midfielder Carlos Baleba and believes he has the potential to become a top player.

“In the last two games he has played well, he is progressing well. For him this is his first real experience in European football. He is very young but his potential is clear. He can be one of the best midfielders in Premier League in the future.”

Match reaction in association with SnickersUK.com