Premier League: Sebastien Pocognoli acknowledges West Brom boost

Sebastien Pocognoli has credited his move to West Bromwich Albion with helping him to earn a recall to the Belgium squad.

The hard-working full-back missed out on a place at the 2014 World Cup prior to making a switch to The Hawthorns from German side Hannover.

He has, however, settled quickly into Premier League life and is back in Marc Wilmots’ plans for European qualifying duty.

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Pocognoli believes top-level football in England has helped him to catch the eye, with West Brom boss Alan Irvine prepared to throw him in from the start.

The 27-year-old, who has been capped on 12 occasions by his country, said: “It’s good news to be called up, especially after missing the World Cup.

“I’m happy after the way the season has started for me here. To start well was very important for me. Playing every game for West Bromwich was important.

“Each game is shown on Belgian TV. If I am picked for the national team, then it’ll be because I’m getting good reports.”

Pocognoli added: “The Bundesliga was good but, for me, the feeling was that the Premier League would be ideal for me because of the way I play and the qualities I have.

“I’m enjoying my time here.”