Full-back hungry for a run in the team
STEVEN Reid says he is ready to step in for injured right-back Billy Jones in this afternoon’s home clash with Manchester United (ko 12.45pm).
Jones was forced off during Albion’s 1-1 draw with Fulham two weeks ago after suffering a hamstring problem - and is expected to be out until later this month.
And Reid is hopeful he can enjoy a run in Pepe Mel’s starting XI while the fellow right-back recuperates.
“Hopefully, I can get a run of games together,” said Reid.
“For as long as Billy has been at the club he has been superb.
“He’s really kicked on this season.
“Unfortunately, he’s out injured at the moment.
“I’ve been in a position this season where I need to keep my body right.
“But I’m ready to step in again now and hopefully I’ll be getting the nod today.
“I’ve come to accept over the last couple of years, because of the injuries I’ve had, that I’m not going to play every game.
“I’m at a stage in my career where I’m just delighted to be playing.
“But when I am called upon I feel like I still can do a job in the Premier League. I’ve kept as fit as I can.
“I wish Billy a speedy recovery but hopefully I can get a bit of a run together between now and the end of the season.”
Reid admits September’s 2-1 victory at Old Trafford was a memorable day for the club but insists three points this time around would be celebrated without consideration of the opposition.
“It is a different Manchester United team this year,” he added.
“Teams have gone to Old Trafford and won. We’ve won there.
“They’ve lost eight games in the league this season which is unheard of in recent years.
“But they’re still Man United!
“If we win this time it won’t be a case of celebrating because we’ve beaten Man United, we will be celebrating because we’ve got the three points.
“Whether it’s a team at the bottom of the league we’re getting points against or a team at the top, it’s purely about getting the points.
“It would be nice to do the double over them and these are the sorts of games where we seem to raise our game and perform better.
“Over the last few years, we’ve had great results against all of the teams at the top of this league.
“Let’s hope that continues today.”