Gareth McAuley has joy after debut

West Brom defender Gareth McAuley today spoke of his joy at making a long-awaited Premier League debut – and revealed how a pre-season illness 'wiped him out.'

West Brom defender Gareth McAuley today spoke of his joy at making a long-awaited Premier League debut – and revealed how a pre-season illness 'wiped him out.'

The Northern Ireland captain has set his sights on an extended run in the team, after a man of the match display in his maiden top-flight game on Saturday.

The 31-year-old said: "It was a nice experience. It's taken a long time and I have often dreamed of it. It's been tough getting here but I enjoyed every minute of it."

McAuley joined in the summer on a free transfer from Ipswich but his pre-season was wrecked by a mystery stomach bug.

He said: "It completely wiped me out and I had no strength for anything. I worked hard over the summer to hit the ground running and try to challenge for a place in the team,.

"It was disappointing and probably knocked me a bit, confidence-wise and mentally."

McAuley will face fresh competition for Saturday's trip to Sunderland from Gabriel Tamas, who is back from suspension and boosted by a surprise return to the international stage.

Tamas and former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu were banned by Romania, following an alleged late-night drinking episode.

But coach Victor Piturca has reportedly included the pair in a provisional squad for forthcoming internationals.

[24link]