Robson-Kanu an advocate of Baggies’ gruelling pre-season training

Hill sessions in Austria are unlikely to be the first choice for most players in pre-season, but Hal Robson-Kanu believes his West Bromwich Albion side are already noticing the improvements of their European workout.

Robson-Kanu and the Baggies know all too well the demands of manager Tony Pulis, and that’s been no different this year – with as many as three sessions a day to keep them on their toes.

That touring party has included Jay Rodriguez, with the new signing from Southampton just one of the advocates for the tough programme.

Pulis’ last pre-season proved dividends a year ago with a top-half Premier League finish, leaving striker Robson-Kanu confident the tricks can be repeated once again at the Hawthorns.

“All pre-seasons are tough, but this one in particular has a real focus on getting us stronger and fitter. That’s what pre-season is all about so we’re lapping it up,” said the 28-year-old, who has signed a contract through until 2020.

“It really feels like this is a camp made to help us improve. You can see that in the hill sessions which are built around that.

“It’s important we maintain the levels we have currently. If we do that come the start of the season then we’ll be ready to go.

“We’ve got good competition for places at the moment, but you’ve got to back yourself and what you think you bring to the team.

“I showed that last season as I played more and more games and I’m looking forward to the season ahead.”