Jerome Thomas admits he’s enjoying the challenge of helping Albion gain promotion back to the Premier League claiming it was a major part in his decision to join.
The former Arsenal man has never gained promotion during his time as a professional and is pleased the Baggies have opened up a four-point gap on third placed Cardiff.
The victory over high-flying Leicester City at the weekend, combined with the Bluebirds’ defeat against neighbours Swansea, opened up a cushion for Di Matteo’s men heading into the international break. And, after back-to-back victories for the first time since September, Albion now find themselves just two points behind leaders Newcastle United with Thomas pleased with the Baggies’ position so far.
"It was a very big win and the fact it was back-to-back wins was the most important thing," the tricky winger said.
"We have looked at the table and we've now got a bit of breathing space so we're happy.
"It is definitely important but I keep saying it's a long season and it's still very early days.
"I think by the turn of the year we will start to see a bit more because there are so many games in December, but at the moment it's still early.
"It's important because there are so many games and they are games we can win the majority of, looking at the fixtures.
"I think we would be expected to win most of the games and only lose or draw one or two and that's what we'll be expecting to do.
"I have never been part of a promotion team but that's why I came here, it's as simple as that.
"I have no intention of staying the Championship and I have come here because we're favourites to go back up and I am here to help us do that."