Albion picked up another point - against one of the most improved teams in the Premier League.

But they will feel they could have added another 1-0 win to their recent tally.

Or maybe more than 1-0.

That they were instead held 0-0 by Aston Villa was largely down to a goalkeeper they were reported to be pursuing last summer.

Emiliano Martinez made several fine saves, perhaps the best of them from Joel Veltman’s deflected blast in the second half.

Or perhaps it was from sub Danny Welbeck at close range going into the final stages.

The former Arsenal keeper made fine, athletic first-half stops from Leandro Trossard and Dan Burn and also got down to save a low Veltman drive.

Soon after the break, he improvised to keep out a low shot from compatriot Alexis Mac Allister.

Martinez suffered injury-time agony here with the Gunners last season.

But he made sure there would be no repeat when he got down to his left to keep out a bouncing Trossard effort.

Much of Albion’s work was excellent.

They passed the ball slickly and with confidence as they got into some dangerous areas.

But they will rue the fact they did not find that killer touch.

Apert from nine Martinez saves in total, the hosts’ best moment saw the lively Mac Allister head over from close range as he arrived late to meet a terrific Joel Veltman cross.

Veltman was highly impressive down the right as he kept Jack Grealish unusually quiet.

The Holland international has been an excellent signing.

He should have been part of a win this evening.