Express & Star

Jonas Olsson: I'm ready to start for Albion

West Brom stalwart Jonas Olsson is ready to play a part in curing the Baggies' defensive problems to help them stay in the Premier League.

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Olsson reckons he is back up to full speed after an injury-hit season and desperate to reclaim his place for the final six games of the club's survival fight.

The Sweden international has been unable to oust Gareth McAuley and Joleon Lescott since returning last month from Achilles surgery.

But boss Tony Pulis could be tempted into changes at Crystal Palace on Saturday, after his side leaked 10 goals in their last three games.

The 32-year-old has made one Premier League start since returning in March from a five-month lay-off.

He said: "It's been a frustrating season but I've been given quite a lot of minutes by the gaffer lately, so I feel good.

"My foot feels good and I feel fresh, so I'm eager to go and hopefully I can contribute in these last six games.

"I've been struggling with the injury for two seasons and after the operation it's been much better. Hopefully, I will get even more minutes now.

"You want to contribute and it's been a frustrating season for me personally and for the team, so I want to contribute now.

"I have been in this situation before so I think I have something to offer."

Albion head for Palace on Saturday before completing their tough run-in with games against Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle, Chelsea and Arsenal.

They have just 33 points at present, seven clear of the relegation zone, but Pulis has warned they need more points to stay up.

Olsson said: "We are an experienced group and the coaching staff are experienced. They've been in similar situations, as well.

"I think we are well set for the last six games. There is no room for putting your head down.

"We have to remember last season. We got through that and we have to do it again.

"We need to find our way again and find the confidence from our organisation, which has generally been good under this gaffer."

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