West Brom's Erik Pieters setting the example for young players
Albion boss Carlos Corberan has called on younger footballers to follow the example set by Erik Pieters.
Dutchman Pieters, 35, has become a feature in the Albion line-up since checking into The Hawthorns as a free transfer 13 months ago.
The former Stoke and Burnley left-back is now three appearances from racking up 50 games for the Baggies and despite his advancing years has been reliable both in availability and performance. The head coach described how Pieters attacks every training session like it could be his last – something younger players would be wise to adopt.
“Pieters has experience, of a clever player of 35 years old, he has a very good game and tactical understanding,” Corberan said.
“He still has the desire of an 18-year-old. If physically these players can avoid injuries then they are players you can enjoy a lot.
“Why? Because sometimes players are 23 or 25 years old they are watching all the life still in front of him, and he says ‘why do I have to do this today? I will do it next year’ or ‘tomorrow when I want to’ because they see a massive career in front of them.
“With Pieters it is not the same, because he loves football, he knows he doesn’t know what happens in the next year or next months. When they love football and in the last part of their career, every day is one they will give their best. It’s exactly like this. Some players no, some yes.
