Albion go first class in Spain (From The Argus)

Albion go first class in Spain

5:00pm Tuesday 8th May 2012 in Albion By Brian Owen

Albion have been told they will tread in the footsteps of the world’s greatest players when they spend a week of pre-season in southern Spain.

The Seagulls will be in Jerez from July 22 to 29 and are likely to play two matches as part of their build-up to Championship action.

They have switched their summer training camp from the Algarve – and moved up a level in the view of former Albion skipper Gary Hobson, who helps plan their summer trips.

Hobson said: “This place offers unbelievably good grass pitches, gym, indoor pools. It has been host to Real Madrid, Barcelona, the Spanish national team.

“It has always had top sides going there – Premier League teams pre- season and mid-season camps.

“Tottenham were there two years ago. Real Betis use it every year.”

Hobson says there will be no distractions for Gus Poyet and his men.

He added: “There’s not a lot to do there, other than play football.

“You’re not that close to the coast, it is certainly not a holiday destination.

“There’s a championship golf course there and that’s about it.

“It’s the warmest part of Spain so they will be training early and late.

“They will be resting during the peak heat of the day or maybe doing pool or gym sessions, keeping out of the sun.

“In terms of facilities, it’s a big step up from last year in my opinion.

“The accommodation might be of a similar level but in terms of a footballing venue, these are pitches you walk on and think ‘I can’t wait to get out here and play’.”

Albion will be playing Cardiff City again next season after the Bluebirds crashed out of the play-off semi-finals, 5-0 on aggregate to West Ham.