Shane Long tipped to give Baggies a boost
West Brom's Gareth McAuley today claimed Shane Long can give the Baggies a mental edge if he returns for Sunday's Black Country derby.
West Brom's Gareth McAuley today claimed Shane Long can give the Baggies a mental edge if he returns for Sunday's Black Country derby.
The Ireland international terrorised Wolves in Albion's 2-0 Hawthorns win in October as he started his Baggies career in red-hot form.
He has been laid low by a back injury and illness in recent weeks but hopes to return for Sunday's televised clash at Molineux.
And McAuley believes his presence could play on the minds of Mick McCarthy's side.
"Longy started the season fantastically and we probably do miss his presence because he's got a reputation," said McAuley.
"I know from playing against him that he never gives people any peace.
"That can get in the minds of the opposition when they think he's going to chase everything down and run the channels all day.
"That's what he's good at so he's a different type of prospect to the players we've got playing at the moment.
"Chris Brunt is an important player and has been for a number of years for the club and it will be like a new signing when we've got him back. They are different options for us when they're available."
Long is confident of being fit for the Molineux match after sitting out Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Swansea.
But McAuley does not believe the Baggies will rush him back unless he is fully fit. "It's important but there are a lot of games to go and we need to be patient with Shane," he said.
"Hopefully we can get him back sooner or later, fit and able to play and to carry the battle."
