West Brom boss Hodgson hails Jones for Man City performance

West Bromwich Albion boss Roy Hodgson was delighted with man-of-the-match Billy Jones for their draw against Manchester City.

Jones, in his first Barclays Premier League season, responded in fine style by making a series of vital blocks to deny the likes of David Silva, Mario Balotelli, Samir Nasri and Sergio Aguero.

"The sponsors seem to be very kind to the new players in the team when it comes to naming the man of the match, which is great," joked Hodgson on WBA's website.

"I thought Billy was very good.

"He's actually been a bit unlucky this season.

"He got into the team at left-back in place of Nicky Shorey for a while and did perfectly okay. But, of course, he is much more comfortable on the right side because he is a natural right-footer

"Steven Reid has done so well this season that he has been keeping him out. But we knew the day might come when Steven would miss some games, so Billy got his chance.

"He came on and played virtually all the game at Newcastle and all the game today.

"He must be really pleased to have had two such stern tests at the start of his time at the club.

"Newcastle away and Man City at home - if you can do well in those two games you should do well in the rest."