West Brom boss Tony Pulis expects Jonny Evans to play into his thirties as he calls the defender 'a top player'

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Tony Pulis has said Jonny Evans could play well into his thirties as the West Brom manager weighs up whether to play the centre-back against the club that tried to sign him.

Manchester City visit the Hawthorns in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday and could be met by Evans, 29, who Pep Guardiola bid £21m for in an effort to reinforce his defence.

'He's a top player,' said Pulis. 'He said he was a West Brom player until anything changed and he's remained a West Brom player, thank goodness. We move on with it now and we'll march forward.

West Brom's Jonny Evans could play well into his thirties, according to Tony Pulis

'I think he's done well here in lots of respects. He's always technically been a good centre-half but he's become a better defender and the responsibly now of being captain will take him on again.

'He picks up one or two injuries but he is a very fit lad and he has got a lot more in the tank. He's a lad who could play well into his thirties.' 

West Brom signed Evans from Manchester United for £6m in 2015 but placed a £30m price on his head when City came calling. 'We're pleased that value is that value and I'm even more pleased we never took it,' said Pulis.

Evans is expected to be in the starting line-up to play Manchester City on Wednesday night