Saturday 8 December 2012 21:58, UK
West Bromwich Albion manager Steve Clarke has paid tribute to Gareth McAuley and admitted it is surprising the centre-back had to wait so long to make his Premier League breakthrough.
Clarke added: "If you watch Gareth week in, week out, you can see what he brings to the team. He's a good, honest, old-fashioned central defender. "He puts his head in where it hurts, wins his tackles, makes his interceptions and keeps the game simple. "He's got a real hunger because he did come into the game late and he's got his chance at the top level late. "He's got a real hunger and desire to do well every game and that's a fantastic attribute to have." Don't miss any live and exclusive football coverage this festive season. Click here to visit Sky Sports' Festive Calendar
