Brendon Batson backs West Brom for Europa push

The 63-year-old played for the Baggies in all three of their Uefa Cup campaigns in the late 1970s and early 80s.

He's been impressed with what he's witnessed at The Hawthorns so far, and thinks Tony Pulis's team have the right character to mount a challenge for the Europa League.

"It's early days yet but from what I've seen, things are looking up," said Batson. "We've got a fantastic team spirit, we've got a good spine in the team.

"Take Gareth McAuley, who is a great example of somebody who has done the very best with his talent.

"Nobody is going to enjoy coming to The Hawthorns, that's for sure.

"I don't want to be too premature, but there's no reason why we can't have a tilt at Europe. All the signs are there that we're going to have a good season."

Batson was a brilliant right-back during his four years at The Hawthorns, and he has been particularly impressed with the way new signing Allan Nyom – who is also a right-back – has slotted in at left-back.

"The lad seems to be getting better and better," he said. "It's not an easy league to play in the Premier League, but he seems to have taken to it.

"It's a good sign when you see them getting better with each game. He's quite cute on the pitch.

"The fans seem to like him as well, he's built up a rapport with them, which is important."

Batson is pleased that Nyom's arrival has freed up Chris Brunt, but he stressed that the key to Albion's recent run of form is the team ethic.

"Brunt did a terrific job at left back but I prefer to see him further up the pitch," said Batson. "He's got a tremendous left foot, he's a real pro. It's great for the manager, who can now move his players about a bit more.

"But it's not about individuals, we've got a very good team. I think we should be very confident."

To read Batson's recollections of Albion's European excursions, pick up tomorrow's Express & Star.

Meanwhile, Albion are not interested in Besiktas winger Kerim Frei, as reported elsewhere.