Victor Anichebe was the subject of praise from West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis on Monday night.

The Nigerian striker made his first start since May in the 1-0 win over Newcastle United and provided a constant threat for the Baggies.

The former Everton man, who started ahead of Saido Berahino, was unlucky not to mark the rare start with a goal but was denied by the woodwork in what was a fairly impressive performance in the eyes of Pulis.

"He's a top player. When Victor turns up he's a top player," he added.

"He's shown that today, he was a handful for them and they just couldn't handle him."

The contest was separated by Darren Fletcher's 78th-minute header which Newcastle debutant Karl Darlow was unable to keep out despite being in the perfect position to do so.