Michael Appleton: Joe Mattock is not ordinary

Assistant boss Michael Appleton today claimed youngster Joe Mattock is ready to challenge Nicky Shorey for Albion's left-back spot after making huge strides in training.

Appleton believes the former Leicester man will put pressure on Shorey for a first-team place after the club's decision to sell Marek Cech on transfer deadline day last month.

Mattock has yet to start a game for the Baggies in the Premier League and ended last season on loan at Sheffield United, but Appleton believes he is showing clear signs of improvement.

"I don't think we have to hope anymore because I think something has already happened in the last two or three weeks or so," said Appleton.