Club News

Mulumbu: I can handle the pressure

Midfielder could replace injured Chris Brunt at Hull

ALBION midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu believes he knows how to handle the high-stakes tension that will be in the air at the KC Stadium.

The Baggies tackle Hull in a Premier League pressure clash which sees both teams striving to get clear of the trouble zone.

Mulumbu is waiting to see if his impressive return as a substitute in Tuesday night’s West Ham game was enough to clinch him a starting role against The Tigers.

But if the all-action midfielder gets the nod, he makes it clear he will relish the demands of the occasion.

“It is always a pleasure to play with my team-mates,” said Mulumbu.

“I always work hard on the training pitch, and if the gaffer picks me I will be ready to do all that I can to help my team-mates.

“It will be a difficult game at Hull, but I have been here for five years now and I believe I know how to handle these games.

“They are a good team, but we will focus on ourselves.

“We are capable of playing some good football, so we will be doing everything we can to win."

One of Mulumbu’s team-mates Silvestre Varela, came on as a 65th minute substitute against the Hammers for his first appearance in the Barclays Premier League. 

The 27-year-old was delighted to see the Portugal international make his league debut, but says the whole squad need to be prepared for the busy Christmas schedule.

“I was really happy to see Varela play on Tuesday night,” said Mulumbu.

“He had an injury and it has been tough for him to come back.

“The squad is full of talent, we just need everyone to be fully fit.

“There are lots of games coming up so every player needs to be ready and prepared.”