Roberto De Zerbi believes Julio Enciso will benefit from playing in the Copa America this summer.
The day after Albion’s head coach met Paraguay manager Daniel Garnero, Enciso produced an outstanding performance in the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United on Saturday.
The tournament in America in June has seen Paraguay drawn in a group with Colombia, Costa Rica and Brazil with their first match against Colombia in Houston on 24 June.
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After recovering from a knee injury which kept him out for more than six months Enciso is hoping a strong finish to the season will seal his place in Paraguay’s squad – with the blessing of De Zerbi.
“I met the coach of Paraguay on Friday, we spoke for ten minutes about Julio,” said De Zerbi.
“I think it can be important for him, first of all, that he plays for his country and he has to be proud to do this.
“It is an honour to play in every situation – a friendly game or in the Copa America.
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"And secondly he can improve his physical condition, and find the confidence to be in the best condition to restart next season. Next season is important for him because he has missed too many games this season.
"On Saturday he deserved to play the game he did. He hasn’t play this season, like Evan Ferguson, and I am sorry for that because we lost two big players for us.
“If you remember how Evan Ferguson and Enciso finished last season, they were both crucial to reach the Europa League. This season, they haven’t played enough and for us it is tough.”