Zuiverloon set for debut

Dutchman could feature for Baggies against Toffees

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 19th August 2008

Zuiverloon set for debut

Zuiverloon: Heading home

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Tony Mowbray is preparing to hand Gianni Zuiverloon his West Brom debut against Everton this weekend.

The Dutch U21 international arrived at the Hawthorns from Heerenveen over the summer, but has been in Beijing representing his country at the Olympic Games.

However, with Holland having been eliminated in the quarter-finals of that competition, the defender is now heading back to England.

"I spoke to Gianni the other day and watched his game from the other night," Mowbray told the Birmingham Mail.

"It was great to see a West Bromwich Albion player playing in such an arena and such a game, against such great players.

Atmosphere

"It was a great atmosphere and there were some of the best players in the world on the pitch.

"I watched him walk on the pitch alongside Lionel Messi and Riquelme - full Argentina internationals and great, great players.

"It was quite special and hopefully the Premier League arena will hold no fears for him after playing in games like that.

"We'll have a look at him when he comes back and he could be in contention for Saturday.

"He's played four games over there so his fitness levels shouldn't be in question.

"We'll see how he is after the journey and I'll chat with him when returns.

"The reason he is here is because we identified he is a very good player and we are looking forward to getting him back into the squad and back into contention for a place in the team."

Athletic

Mowbray also admitted to being impressed by the youngster's performances in Beijing.

"Gianni did exceptionally well," he added. "He was fast, athletic and comfortable on the ball.

"The Dutch should have won it in the last couple of minutes of the game.They missed a great chance and it went to extra time and ultimately paid the price.

"For the boy, it would have been a great occasion for him to play in the semi-final of the Olympics against Brazil.

"But I'm glad for myself and the team that he is on his way back and will be back in training on Thursday."