Former England international Darren Bent has heaped praise on Gareth Barry for the role he played in West Brom's 1-0 FA Cup victory against West Ham on Saturday.

The 38-year-old rejoined the Baggies on a short-term deal earlier this season but the form of Romaine Sawyers and Jake Livermore has meant he has been on the bench a lot over the past few months.

However, boss Slaven Bilic made changes for the game against the Hammers and Barry's class was clear to see, with the ex-Manchester City man controlling the midfield.

And, his form certainly caught the eye of Bent, who told Football Insider just how good he thought Barry was in the capital.

"He ran all over them. Him and Chris Brunt were brilliant on Saturday, ran all over them.

"Gareth Barry; organisation, working hard, organising people. Back to front, they were brilliant. Slaven Bilic has got to be so proud of his team. A lot of people would have been thinking they’ll get beat."

Despite that, the left-footer is sure to be back on the bench tonight for Albion's game at Cardiff City.

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The verdict

This praise is fully merited for Barry as he, along with the rest of the team it must be said, was outstanding on Saturday in what was a very good win.

As the former striker says, he organised the team and when the pressure built towards the end with ten men he was the perfect player to have in the middle of the park to ensure Albion didn't panic.

It was a timely reminder to Bilic of what talents the midfielder has and whilst he may not remain in the team tonight, he will have a role to play as the Baggies push for promotion this season.

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