West Brom boss Tony Pulis says Gareth McAuley is playing as well as ever.

The Northern Ireland international turns 37 in December but is showing no signs of slowing down at the highest level.

Pulis said: “Gareth is nearly 37 but he's as fit as a flea. He is just a freak, if you can put it that way. He is extraordinary.

“Yes, I could see Gareth doing the same, playing when he is 40, because he looks after himself really well.

“And he has tremendous ability. He's a good footballer and is a great lad to have around the place. I'm so pleased he's scoring goals – that's two this season!"

Pulis' only complaint regards the humble, personable McAuley is he should be a lot more vocal.

The ex-Stoke and Crystal Palace coach said: “He's a quiet lad – that's the only thing I'd like to change. He's a big 6ft 4in centre-half but he's very quiet."