Graham Dorrans comes through a trying time

Defender Liam Ridgewell today praised friend Graham Dorrans after the midfielder returned to help Albion draw at Tottenham following a meningitis scare for his young daughter.

Dorrans started on Saturday at White Hart Lane after missing the opening-day win over Liverpool to be at the bedside of daughter Ava.

The three-month-old was discharged from hospital last week and Ridgewell, whose own daughter suffered from the same illness two and a half years ago, paid tribute to his close friend.

"It was fantastic to see Graham back in training during the week and back on the pitch on Saturday," said Ridgewell.

"I think it shows that all our players want to do well for the team and help us get results.

"My little girl went through the same thing so I've got behind him and I've just tried to speak to him as much as possible and show my support.

"That's what you do if you're friends.

"It's difficult but you have to try and stay strong and be a good, positive person.

"I think he showed on Saturday how strong he is by how well he played.

"My daughter, Eva, was six months old and things like this are sent to test us and hopefully we come through them.

"She's three now. Graham has shown great strength and we're all delighted for him."

James Morrison's late equaliser secured a point at White Hart Lane and Ridgewell believes the result was deserved.

"We were very resilient in the first half and in the second half we showed what we're all about," said the full-back.

"We created plenty of chances in the second half that we could have scored from.

"James Morrison went over on his ankle and I think he was struggling with that.

"But he showed what the team is about because everyone wants to do well for the cause."