Tony Pulis: Lescott a great pro but Evans is an upgrade
Albion boss Tony Pulis has praised Joleon Lescott's professionalism ahead of today's derby with Villa – but explained why Jonny Evans is an upgrade at centre-back.
Lescott spent last season at the Baggies, before Villa bought him in the summer for £2m.
Pulis was happy to let the 33-year-old England international go because he felt he was nearing the end of his career.
In the same transfer window the Baggies boss snapped up Jonny Evans, now 28, from Manchester United for £6m.
"Joleon was fantastic for us last year," said Pulis. "I found him to be a top guy, a real decent lad off the pitch and he was very good, a lot of the lads liked him in the dressing room.
"He was a real good role model as well, everything he did was very professional.
"I've got a lot of time for Joleon, he's been a fantastic player, he's played for top clubs, won loads of competitions with Manchester City, played for England.
"But he's at the back end of his career, and Jonny's at the front end - we hope - of his career."
If Albion beat Villa today it will be the first time the Baggies have done the double over their rivals in 42 years.
"There will be motivational stats and you can use that one," he said.
"I'm more concerned about stats within the game and what people do and what people don't do."
Villa are unbeaten in four games in all competitions – but that run includes two FA Cup games against League Two Wycombe.
Remi Garde's men may be on an upturn form, but they are still 15 points behind Albion.
"I'm not concerned about the Villa. I'm more concerned about this football club," said Pulis.
"Thursday was spent looking at how Villa play and what they do and what they don't do but from Friday onwards until kick-off it's all about us and we've got to do to achieve a victory."
