Paul Scharner: West Brom can qualify for Europe next season

Paul Scharner of West Brom (Getty Images)

Related Links

Teams

Players

West Brom midfielder Paul Scharner believes that the Baggies have the quality and experience within the club to qualify for Europe next season.

The Black Country outfit finished the season in 11th place last season under manager Roy Hodgson, who arrived at the Hawthorns in February following Roberto Di Matteo’s dismissal.

Under their new boss West Brom won five and lost five of their final 12 games, including a victory over Hodgson’s former club Liverpool and Scharner feels the club now need to progress further up the table.

“I would say we could aim for Europe next season,” he said according to the Express and Star.

“Definitely for next season it’s possible. If we can keep our bad spell very short then we have a good chance to finish properly in the top half of the table. The manager has the experience and we have the potential in the team.

“But you have to bring that potential onto the pitch as well and we learned a lot last season about what we have to do to be successful.”

The Austrian international also urged his team-mates to improve their focus on the pitch and hinted that investment in the team would be needed if the Baggies were to enjoy success.

“If we can keep our focus for longer periods for next season there is a massive chance to get big success,” he added.

“It also depends on the chairman and the board and if they want to continue and increase the success.”

Albion begin the new season with a daunting opening fixture as champions Manchester United arrive at the Hawthorns on August 13, with that clash followed by a trip to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea on August 20.