Billy Jones could start for West Brom

West Brom boss Roy Hodgson today placed Billy Jones on alert for a Premier League debut against Wolves – and gave a ringing endorsement to his summer signing.

The former Preston defender is standing by for his top-flight bow in Sunday's Black Country derby, with regular right-back Steven Reid struggling with a broken hand.

And head coach Hodgson insisted Jones is ready for the Premier League after making massive strides since his pre-transfer arrival in the summer.

The Baggies boss said: "Right from the first moment we thought we'd done the right thing bringing this lad in but, if anything, he's actually improved.

"We believe in him strongly and he will be OK. He is ready for the Premier League and we believe in him."