Goran Ivanisevic: Filip Krovinovic something like Luka Modric

Ivanisevic has supported the Baggies for years because radio colleague and mad Albion fan David Law converted him.

At this year’s Wimbledon, the 2001 champion told Law his fellow Croatian Krovinovic was similar to the current Ballon d’Or winner.

Ivanisevic said: “He is midfielder, something like Modric. He was injured and had huge bad luck, but is a great player.”

Krovinovic, who joined the Baggies on a season-long loan from Benfica, was delighted with the comparison and promised to give Ivanisevic a signed shirt.

“If Goran really said that, then I have to give him a shirt,” he told the Croatian press.

“I know he’s a fan of West Bromwich and I believe we’ll be the best in the Championship, just like Goran was at Wimbledon.

“I am honoured and privileged that Slaven Bilic wanted me, and I consider this to be a praise for the work I have done.

“I do not feel pressured nor afraid of challenges, it is just motivation for further work.”

Krovinovic jumped at the chance to work with Bilic, who has previously managed the Croatian national team and he’s been impressed with his first few days at the club.

“He works calmly and relaxed, with no nervousness or stress,” said Krovinovic. “He knows what he needs, he feels great experience.

“I talked to teammates, everybody praises him, and coach Dean Računica has impressed me.

“He participates in training, shows us everything and plays with us, the man is lightweight, so he could still play football.”