Billy Jones knew instantly that Jonas Olsson was the man to look up to when he arrived at West Bromwich Albion in the summer.
The versatile full-back quickly realised that the giant Swede was an ideal role model because of his presence both on and off the field.
Olsson has been the first name on the Baggies teamsheet, when fit, for the past four seasons, winning over three different managers during his time at The Hawthorns.
And Jones, who has recently earned himself a starting berth, is hoping he can emulate the vice captain by impressing Roy Hodgson.
“Jonas is one of the players who stood out for me when I first got here,” said Jones. “When we were in America on the pre-season tour he impressed me and, like all the lads here, he’s a good player.
“I could tell straight away that he was a great leader and someone who was respected.
“On the pitch he’s very commanding as a ball winner and when Jonas is calling for it you get out of the way because he will come through you.
“But that’s just one part of his game.
“He’s a ball player as well, he’s got a great range of passing, he reads the game well and is a great leader.
“I think he’s known for his strength and for being an aggressive and intimidating centre-half.
“The size of him obviously helps but off the pitch he’s a bit different.”
Training alongside experienced Premier League players such as Olsson and co have clearly helped Jones along the way and the Shrewsbury-born star is now looking every bit a top-flight player.
“I’m learning as an individual by playing with these great players and Jonas is one of those,” he added.
“You can tell he’s a great leader.”
