Robby ready for testing trips

Last updated : 26 November 2009 By Wba-mad Editor

Roberto Di Matteo has told his players to prepare for two tough fixtures away from The Hawthorns as the Baggies prepare to travel to Hillsborough and Pride Park on consecutive Saturdays. 

Second placed Albion are hoping to add to their points tally against 17th place Wednesday and 19th place County however Roberto Di Matteo is taking nothing for granted against the Championship strugglers.

“These next two weeks are going to be a real test for us," the Italian admitted.

"We've shown we can be competitive with the clubs who are at the top end of the table but we've not been able to get the points we want against teams in the middle to the bottom.

"So, the next two weeks will be an interesting test."

The Baggies needed a last minute goal from Kevin Phillips to secure all three points the last time the Baggies visited Hillsborough with the Baggies boss predicting another close encounter with the Owls.

"I've seen them a few times," the former MK Dons boss revealed.

"Some games they look 'wow', very good, very strong.

"Other days I see them and think 'we should be able to win'.

"It depends which team we face on Saturday.

"Their manager is a good guy and has been there for a while.

"It's a great club with good history and tradition.

"They were in the Premier League when I came over to England.

"It's sad to see clubs like them, Leeds and Charlton outside of it.

"There are some massive clubs in the Championship, some with bigger history and tradition than those in the Premier League.

"That's why it's the most difficult and exciting league."