Club News

Mel explains McAuley captain choice

Boss insists defender was obvious man for the job

PEPE Mel has outlined the qualities that persuaded him to choose Gareth McAuley as his skipper for tomorrow’s trip to Hull (ko 3pm).

The Baggies boss is without club captain Chris Brunt (knee) due to injury, while his deputy, Jonas Olsson, is suspended for two games.

And Mel explained why Northern Ireland international McAuley, who has led his country on many occasions, was is the ideal choice in his eyes.

“Of course it’s easy for me,” said the Albion chief.

“McAuley I think is best for us – he’s calm, he’s a good professional, thinks on the pitch, and he’s always next to the referee.

“For the young players a good professional is the best example and McAuley is a good player and a good professional every day on the pitch and training ground.”