Pulis hails Barry record

West Brom 0 West Ham 0

Gareth Barry of West Bromwich Albion looks on prior to the Premier League match between West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United at The Hawthorns. Photo: Getty Images

Independent.ie Sportsdesk

Tony Pulis joked that only Gareth Barry deserved the spotlight after this forgettable stalemate. West Brom midfielder Barry equalled Ryan Giggs' Premier League appearance record as he featured in his 632nd top-flight game.

His achievement was the only moment of note in a scrappy match. Pedro Obiang hit the bar from long range for West Ham as West Brom failed to create a serious opening and Baggies manager Pulis conceded that Barry, who made his Premier League debut for Aston Villa in 1998, warranted the plaudits.

"You're best off talking about Gareth," he joked. "From the outside, over the years, I've always been a great admirer.

"Him coming into the football club, you just recognise and realise the dedication and his application towards his profession is just absolutely fantastic.

"He's like Fletch (Darren Fletcher) in lots of ways. They're bastions of this sport. The young players at our football club, I hope they realise how lucky they are to see someone of that quality and that ilk."