‘Going to be…’ – Slaven Bilic shares when Branislav Ivanovic could make WBA debut
West Brom announced the signing of Branislav Ivanovic this week, bringing an end to their defensive recruits.
The Serbian arrived on a free transfer after captaining Russian side Zenit St. Petersburg to numerous domestic trophies in his time there.
The experienced defender had not trained for some time before arriving at the Baggies, so it was unclear when his debut may take place.
It isn’t expected to be against Everton on Saturday, but Slaven Bilic did respond positively when asked about his new defender recently.
“He didn’t train from the end of last season,” he said.
“He’s training now a few days. We’re not gonna rush, but it isn’t going to take long. According to his words and my feelings, it’s going to be very soon.”
The Brentford clash in the Carabao Cup next week may be the perfect opportunity to hand Ivanovic his debut, with there being little risk in that competition.
Steve Madeley of the Athletic suggested that the 36-year-old may need two weeks to get up to full speed at the Hawthorns in training, although this update suggests otherwise.
Ivanovic will be chomping at the bit to feature against Brentford, as it will give him the opportunity to prove he can start against his former side Chelsea only a matter of days after that tie.
The Albion’s defensive problems were clear against Leicester, and another display like that at Everton could leave Bilic with no choice but to start Ivanovic – time will tell.
In other West Brom news, journalist shares major update on Filip Krovinovic pursuit
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