McAuley impressed by Anelka impact

Gareth McAuley believes new West Brom team-mate Nicolas Anelka is already proving a valuable addition to the squad.

The Frenchman signed a one-year deal at The Hawthorns on July 4, after spending the second half of last season at Serie A champions Juventus.

And McAuley claims the 34-year-old remains in good condition, and will prove to be a valuable asset for Steve Clarke’s side.

“In fairness, he’s a real athlete,” the Northern Irishman said.

“He looks like he’s cruising through. In training he’s been sharp, his awareness is another level and he still has a turn of pace.

“He’s been lively in training and he has that pace. He’s only switched it on a couple of times when he needed to but, when he did, he was away.”

The 33-year-old believes the former Manchester City and Liverpool striker’s signing will boost the club ahead of the new season.

“It gives everyone a lift, especially all the young players, to see someone of his level, who is still as sharp and hungry,” he continued.

“It’s a great signing and maybe he can score us a few goals.”