'Peter Pan' Gareth McAuley insists he has miles in the West Brom tank

The Northern Irishman has a one-year rolling contract at The Hawthorns and turns 37 in December.

But Albion's very own Peter Pan continues to defy his age.

Not only did McAuley compete at Euro 2016 after making more than 30 appearances for the Baggies last season, he rejoined the Albion squad soon after to take part in pre-season.

He completed his first 90 minutes against Plymouth Argyle at the weekend, and it's evident the man once labelled a 'fitness freak' by head coach Tony Pulis has no plans to hang up his boots just yet.

"I'm determined, hungry as ever to play games and hopefully I can put in performances where I get picked and play because everyone wants to play football," said McAuley.

"I've had a great career so far and hopefully there's a few miles in me yet!"

McAuley joined the Baggies five years ago as a 31-year-old on a free transfer from Ipswich Town.

He has since racked up 176 appearances for the club.

A reliable mainstay in Pulis's team, there's every chance he will break the 200-mark this season.

McAuley was only off for a couple of weeks but he says the short break in between Euro 2016 and pre-season was perfect for his physique.

"I feel like I haven't been away fitness wise," he said. "It's probably the better the way it's been done.

"I don't usually take two days off so I got a few days off. I've been away with the family. It's worked out well, it keeps you going which is good.

"I feel good. There's a long season ahead but I'm looking forward to it."

McAuley was an integral part of Michael O'Neill's successful Northern Ireland team that reached the last 16 in France, and his headed goal against Ukraine was one of the eye-catching moments of the tournament.

With fellow compatriots Jonny Evans and Chris Brunt in the Albion squad, there have been plenty of opportunities to relive it, but McAuley is focused on the next challenge.

"I've been keeping my head down," he said. "That was a nice moment and something I'll look back on in years to come with pride. But it's back to West Brom now, that's gone and it's about the Premier League from now on."