Club News

Ben proud to wear Three Lions again

Keeper pleased with England return on back of Albion form

BEN Foster says he is immensely proud to be back in the England squad on the back of his sensational Albion form in the Barclays Premier League this season.

The Baggies stopper was an unused substitute in both the 8-0 triumph in San Marino and the 1-1 draw at Group H table-toppers Montenegro in last month's World Cup qualifiers.

The results leave Roy Hodgson’s outfit two points off top spot in second place, with four games remaining.

And the 30-year-old admits his return to the national side was a comfortable one – despite a two-year self-imposed absence due to injury concerns and for family reasons. 

“It was good, it was really good actually,” said Foster.

“It was fairly easy to slide back in as I always used to.

“The squad is pretty similar to what it was a couple of years ago but there’s been a drastic change in terms of the coaching staff and facilities, in terms of St George’s.

“It’s the first time I’ve been there and it’s amazing.

“It’s geared up for its purpose and it makes it so much easier for everybody.

“It was a really good experience.

“I’m really proud to be back in the set-up.”

And the 30-year-old keeper says former Baggies boss Hodgson’s coaching style has not changed since he left The Hawthorns just under a year ago.

“He’s exactly the same as he was when he was at West Brom,” Foster added.

“It was nice to see he is still the same and you would like to think that he would be.

“He’s a top, top guy and a top coach.

“You can just see how well the lads have taken to him as well.

“He’s always the same in training and if he’s not happy with the session he’ll bring the lads in for a little huddle.

“As soon as he opens his mouth the lads listen to every single word he says.

“Everybody appreciates what he has to say and knows he knows football like the back of his hand.”

Foster believes England are still in the box seat when it comes to qualifying from Group H – with Moldova, Montenegro and Poland all to play at Wembley in the remaining fixtures.

“I think we’re still in quite a strong position," he said.

“I think people look at the teams in our league and think we should absolutely walk it.

“It’s never the way and I don’t think it’s the way for any of the teams in qualification.

“You go to teams like Montenegro and the atmosphere is hostile, so it’s not easy.”