Albion captain Chris Brunt isn’t surprised how well Gareth McAuley has adapted to life in the Premier League.
The 31-year-old defender made had to wait until late September to start a top flight game after joining the Baggies in the summer on a free transfer.
McAuley has been consistently good since then has forged a formidable partnership with Jonas Olsson at the heart of Albion’s defence.
The former Ipswich Town man scored his first Hawthorns goal against Chelsea last weekend to cap another sterling display by the Northern Ireland international.
Brunt, who played alongside the giant defender for his country before joining the club, believes his international and club teammate has been one of the bargains of the season.
“He’s taken to it well,” said Brunt.
“He’s been magnificent this season and he’s been one of the finds of the season, especially as he came on a free transfer.
“I knew all about him from international duty and how well he can play.
“He’s a good solid defender, he had a decent goal record at Ipswich so we knew he could pop up with a goal.
“I’m not surprised he scored but defensively he and Jonas Olsson have formed a good partnership and it’s working really well for us at the moment.”
Has McAuley been Albion's best summer signing? Have your say at WBA-MAD's fans' forum here at Baggies Banter.