Billy Jones backed as an able deputy for West Brom

West Brom defender Gareth McAuley today backed team-mate Billy Jones to rise to the challenge if he is called into Christmas action.

Summer signing Jones is on stand-by to face Manchester City at the Hawthorns on Boxing Day, as regular right-back Steven Reid struggles with injury.

And Northern Ireland captain McAuley believes Jones, who impressed when playing out of position at left-back earlier in the season, is ready to face City's stars after playing well as a substitute at Newcastle on Wednesday.

McAuley said: "When Billy came into the team before we had a clean sheet so he has proved that he can step up.

"He has been patient and worked really hard. He showed against a top international player in Jonas Gutierrez that he can handle it.

"He stopped a lot of crosses coming into the box. He did really well."

Jones looks likely to step into a back four protecting goalkeeper Ben Foster, whose two brilliant second-half saves at Newcastle proved crucial in Albion's 3-2 win.

McAuley believes the former Manchester United and England shot-stopper is a reassuring presence at the Hawthorns.

He said: "When called upon he makes the saves and that's the mark of a top goalkeeper."