Albion new-boy Gonzalo Jara is hoping his move to The Hawthorns will help him seal his dream of playing in the World Cup.

The defender, who turned 24 today, will press for a Baggies debut after the forthcoming international break. And he hopes following his Chile team-mates to Europe will cement his place in the national team, who are leading contenders to qualify for South Africa next summer.

“Coming to West Bromwich Albion is really important because I am going to play in a higher level than the Chilean competition and all the Chilean people hope we will play at the World Cup,” said Jara, speaking through an interpreter.

“For me it’s really important to play here because I was the only one of the XI still to be playing in Chile.

“All the rest were playing in Europe. I am looking to reach the highest level I can.

“I think European football is a little bit faster and more dynamic and physical but I have played many times against European teams and I am not afraid of the changes.

“I am really happy about the move. It was always a dream for me because, after watching English football on TV, for me it is the best in the world.”

Jara, who joined the Baggies for £1.4m from Santiago club Colo Colo, is in the Chile squad to face Venezuela and Brazil in World Cup qualifiers in the next week.

But the defender is already relishing playing in Albion colours and believes his versatility will be a key attribute.

He can operate anywhere across the back four or as a holding midfielder.

“In the national team I have played as a midfielder, as a central defender or on the right or left,” he said.

“For me it is the same. I am able to play in all those positions.”

Meanwhile, summer signing Reuben Reid today insisted he is ready for a chance in Albion’s Championship team.

But the former Rotherham forward admitted he is still unsure about his most dangerous role in the side.

Reid has started both of Albion’s Carling Cup wins this season but has yet to figure in a League game since his close season switch from the Millers.

The 21-year-old said: “I want to play as many first team games as possible.

“I honestly believe I have the ability to play at this level and in this team and hopefully it’s a case of getting the opportunity and then showing what I can do.

“It is going to be interesting to see what role the gaffer sees for me in the team, but I believe I have the ability to play at this level, without a doubt.”

Reid began his career as a central striker but enjoyed a successful season with the Millers as a wide player in a three-man forward line.

He has played in a wide midfield role in both of his Carling Cup starts for the Baggies.