GIANNI Zuiverloon has backed Shelton Martis to step up to the plate in Abdoulaye Meite's absence.
The Baggies will be without Meite, who has now linked up with Ivory Coast for African Nations Cup duty, for Saturday's FA Cup third-round trip to Huddersfield (ko 3pm).
And Albion will be unable to add to their squad until next week when the transfer window opens.
Martis has featured as a late substitute in the last two games and started the first ten league games of the season alongside Jonas Olsson at the heart of defence.
"We will miss Abou but we have Shelton Martis who has done well," said Zuiverloon.
"He came in on Saturday and was strong and on Monday too.
"I am very confident he can replace Abou."
Zuiverloon has also praised Olsson for the way he has marshalled the Baggies backline this season, particularly as captain in the absence of the suspended Scott Carson in the last three games.
"Jonas is a very important player for us," he added.
"He's always encouraging us all and trying to get us into the right positions.
"His own game is very strong and he is doing very well."
