Interviews

‘Everyone at this club should look up to him’ - Brunt

CHRIS Brunt says every player on Albion’s books should follow the example of “top professional” Gareth Barry - himself included.

Brunt and Barry continue to compete for a place in Darren Moore’s team, with the former starting the 2-0 win over Millwall, while the latter was preferred for the 4–2 triumph against Bristol City.  

The experienced duo have a collective 1,342 professional appearances to their name, making it easy to see why either could be included at Preston North End on Saturday. 

And skipper Chris, who is now in his twelfth season at The Hawthorns, insists there is plenty to learn from the former Manchester City midfielder.  

“Gaz is a top player and he’s a top professional as well,” he said. “From day one since he’s joined the club he’s just got on with it. 

“There’s no airs and graces about him. He’s played God knows how many Premier League games and he’s the record appearance maker. 

“This is obviously new for him this season because he’s not played in this league before. Again, he came in on the first day of pre-season and has just got on with it. 

“He’s a top player and everyone at this club should look up to him and the way he gets on with his job.

“I’ve played against him a lot over the years and now I see him every day in training and he is a top, top player. 

“In the position the two of us are playing at the minute I feel there’s a lot I can learn from him. 

“It’s great to have him about the place. He’s stepped in and out of the team for me in recent games and it’s good for the team to have that experience.”

And Brunt says the plethora of experience at Darren Moore’s disposal will be imperative as the Sky Bet Championship campaign progresses.  

“The way this league is you cannot play every minute of every game and it would be a big ask to ask somebody to do that, especially if you’re playing in midfield,” he added.

“We’ve got a lot of competition in that area, and it’s an area of the field where we’re strong, so it’s up to us to keep going and keep doing what the coaching staff are asking us. 

“If one of us isn’t having a great day maybe someone else can step in and do a job. That’s not just for me and Gareth, you’ve got Sam Field and Mozza and people like that.

“It’s important we all come together and keep going because it’s going to be a massive team effort for us to be successful.” 

  • Home