Proud father Zoltan Gera has become the second Albion player to withdraw from international duty next week as the Baggies gear up for their final assault on the promotion race.
The Hungarian captain has opted out of his country’s friendly with Slovenia on Wednesday to stay in England with new-born daughter Hanna.
But the winger hopes his withdrawal from the Magyars squad will also aid the Baggies’ bid for Championship and FA Cup glory.
“I am staying at home,” said Gera.
“I spoke to my national team coach and I told him that I want to stay here because of my family.
“I don’t want to leave my wife alone with the baby.
“We have lots of games and I have a good relationship with my coach in Hungary so he has backed me and there is no problem for me.
“Sometimes we need a rest because there are too many games and too much travelling.
“When we get back we just train with the team for one day on Friday, which is not good enough.”
Gera has followed the lead of Albion’s Slovenian midfielder Robert Koren, who opted out of the same friendly so he could stay in England and prepare for his club’s clash with Colchester at The Hawthorns on Saturday.
And Gera is confident the decision will have no effect on his future international prospects.
“Myself and Robbie don’t want to play when we play Slovenia,” said Gera.
“One game is no problem for me. I am still skipper of the team. I will play two or three games in May so there will be enough games.”
Meanwhile, Gera is getting used to being a father and relishing life with his growing family.
“I have already changed a nappy so I am a good dad. I am enjoying every day and every minute and I’m looking forward to more.” he said.
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12 Comments
Nothing better than being a dad for the first time Gera. Hope all is well with the family.
Great news - we need Zolly fit and fresh for the remaining games - same with Koren.
Also send “congrats” to Zolly and his family - all the very best.
thats what i like too see put your club first,going to wembley with gera boing boing
Good afternoon my old Mucker,Tel.
Fishing,Darts,High Jump, IS THERE NO ENDS TO YOUR TALENTS?
Or was that you idea of doing the treble the Mowbary way?
Hey, you know I’m only kidding,but on a srious note,if you could get me a ticket for the Semi’s, I’d love to meet up with you & the boys over a few Shandy’s before the game.
congrates zoltan,,now lets keep the scoring on the pitch,,,baggies on the march lots to look forward to ,exciting times ahead..DOING THE DOUBLE THE MOWBRAY WAY,,,IN STYLE,,OH YES.
terrywembleybaggie he maybe putting his family first (as he should do) but his agent has said hes leaving for sure at the end of the season so I wouldnt go that far. so terry once you have lost to pompey whats your name going to change to?
6,should there be a shock result i will change it to terrytopoftheleaguebaggie boing boing
6… Your not quite grasping this are you,
Zoltan has said that should Albion not get promoted he will leave, Whats the problem he has put his cards on the table and we know where he stands I for one applaud his honesty.
6, You should change yours to Inbredwolf reading the drivel you come out with
A fantastic footballer and I am sure a fantastic father. Congratulation Zoltan and best wishes to your wife and baby Hanna
granthambaggiebird i love you boing boing
HE CANT KEEP THE PACE