Craig Gardner feeling pressure from Mulumbu

Gardner has started every Premier League game for the Baggies this season and has formed an impressive partnership with James Morrison in the heart of midfield.

But the pair have fans' favourite Mulumbu and Claudio Yacob breathing down their necks after the previous first-choice pair lost their places in Alan Irvine's team.

And Gardner said: "You need competition in a team. There are no reserve players at this club – everyone is capable of playing first-team football, and to a high level.

"Claudio and Youssouf are very experienced players so there is a fierce competition for all of us."

The link-up with Morrison has seen Gardner, who made his name at Villa, Birmingham and Sunderland as a goalscorer, adapt his game to complement the Scotland international's attacking instincts.

And he has praised boss Alan Irvine and his coaches for helping with the transition.

He said: "People have always said I have this instinct to attack but as a midfielder you need to be able to do everything.

"Since the gaffer and coaches came in they have taught me a lot and made me adapt at times.

"They've got me thinking about how I play – keeping shape and keeping position at all times, but also being able to attack when necessary or drop deeper.

"I am seeing more of the ball and keeping the ball for longer. I'm enjoying this role a lot.

"There is a great attitude at the club. I'm finding myself a lot deeper at times and having to hold my position more.

"But also there is a chance for me to have more chances in and around the box or being able to make runs in the box."