Chadli’s back to his best

West Bromwich Albion defender Gareth McAuley hopes team-mate Nacer Chadli is back to his best after ending his barren run in front of goal at the weekend.

The 27-year-old immediately started paying back his transfer fee with four goals in his first five appearances.

But Chadli’s sixth-minute goal against West Ham United on Saturday was his first since netting against former employers Tottenham Hotspur on October 15th.

And McAuley hopes the Belgium forward can recapture the form from his early weeks at the Hawthorns.

“He’s a smashing player for us and we’re delighted he’s back on the scoresheet,” said McAuley, who headed a 96th-minute equaliser against the Hammers.

“Hopefully there’s more to come before the end of the season.

“When he came he started in blistering form and we’re certainly seeing that again now.

“We want to get him into areas where he can show his ability and class.

“He can take the Premier League apart.”

Unbeaten at home in the league this calendar year, Tony Pulis’s team will be looking to extend that run when they host AFC Bournemouth next time out, following the weekend’s break for The Emirates FA Cup.