CHRIS Brunt believes Robert Koren will have a big impact on the Albion team throughout the second half of the season.

The World Cup-bound Slovenia captain has made Roberto Di Matteo's starting XI in the last three games - including draws at Newcastle and Ipswich - after being handed his first league start in 11 matches.

Koren scored ten goals in all competitions when the Baggies were last in the Coca-Cola Championship two seasons ago and Brunt insists that kind of experience is invaluable.

"Roko is a quality player," said the Northern Ireland ace.

"He is captain of Slovenia and going to the World Cup.

"It's good to have him back in the side after a couple of injuries and niggles.

"And he has got a bit of experience from the last time we got promoted

"Everybody wants to play games and Roko is at the stage of his career where he needs to be playing games with the World Cup coming up.

"You can understand his frustration at not being in the team, but he's had a couple of injuries and he has been patient and got himself back in the team, and has played well in the last few games.

"If he keeps playing like that he can be a big player for us.

"Last time he did really well with his goals from midfield and his energy

"He has shown all that in the last few games and hopefully he can push on and help us get back to the Premier League."

Brunt also reserved praise for Roman Bednar's contribution as Albion's lone striker in the last three games.

"Roman has been working his socks off in training and he has deserved his run in the team," Brunt added.

"Everybody knows the way Roman plays. He works really hard for the team.

"He had a few chances on Tuesday but he played his role really well."