Hurzeler: Veltman one of the most underrated players

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Charlie Hanson

2024-11-29T06:00+00:00

Joel Veltman has been one of the first names on the teamsheet so far this campaign. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

Joel Veltman is one of the most underrated players in the league, according to Fabian Hurzeler.

The Dutchman has started all but one of Albion’s 12 Premier League games this campaign, with his 150th appearance for the club coming in the 2-1 win over Manchester City earlier this month.

Joel Veltman has made 151 appearances for Albion. 📷 by James Boardman.

Hurzeler said, “He’s one of the most underestimated players in the league. He knows what to do to win games.

“He knows how to be positioned to win personal duels. He knows how to give the team a clear structure, a good balance, and I think that's crucial for a team like us.

“He brings us the right balance with his experience, with his age also, and that's why he's so important for us at the moment. We're happy to have him.”

The Dutchman joined us in 2020 after departing Ajax. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

Another defender who was praised by Hurzeler was Igor Julio. The Brazilian didn’t play a minute of Premier League football in our opening five matches, but has since secured his place in the starting 11.

“The best example is Igor,” Hurzeler continued. “Nobody expected Igor to play this many games. Igor always made himself sure that he's ready for the games, so that when he got the chance, he used it.

“He was always there in training. He always trained hard and he never complained. He accepted his role. And then when he got the chance, he was there.

Igor Julio has started Albion's last five Premier League games. 📷 by Paul Hazlewood.

“That's the same thing that I demand from the other players. So, accept your role, don't complain, you can be disappointed if you're not playing. I always was disappointed when I didn't play as a player.

“It's normal, it should be like this. But accept your role and make sure that you bring yourself in a mood and in the shape that when you get the chance that you're ready.”