Brunt battles to face heroes

Albion winger Chris Brunt has revealed he is battling to avoid missing out on his boyhood dream at Old Trafford next week.

The Northern Ireland international is pulling out all the stops to recover from his hamstring injury, in time to figure for the Baggies at Manchester United.

Brunt is desperate to be fit in time to face the European Champions, having already been forced to miss the trip to former club Middlesbrough.

He said: “I was a Manchester United fan when I was a kid. It’s probably at the top of everyone’s list to go to Old Trafford and play. Being a United fan when I was younger makes that especially so.

“I have played at Old Trafford before in the Youth Cup final. It will be a bit different playing there in front of a full-house in the Premier League. Hopefully I’ll make it for next week and, if selected, go out and enjoy it.

“There is a massive Manchester United following in Northern Ireland, which is probably to do with George Best. Norman Whiteside was there as well of course. I just supported them because my cousin did.

“The injury is not too bad and is coming along alright. With no game this week it gives me a bit of extra time to get things sorted. Obviously, I’m looking to get fit for next Saturday.

“Middlesbrough away was the main fixture I looked for this season and I was looking forward to it. Things happen and I’m just glad I’ve only missed a couple of games, touch wood – so that’s a bonus.”

Brunt insists the Baggies head for Old Trafford with confidence, having taken heart from fellow Premier League new-boys Hull’s unlikely victory against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

He said: “It just shows if you set your stall out and stick to your own thing you can get results at these places. There is no reason why we can’t come away with something.”