ALBION defender Shane Duffy has lauded striker Neal Maupay for what he brings to the team.

The Irish defender was recalled to the starting line-up by manager Graham Potter due to injuries to Adam Webster and Lewis Dunk.

Duffy repaid the faith and put in a solid performance against Southampton, although had one unfortunate moment which led to Armando Broja giving the hosts the lead.

The defender, however, believes the point earned by the team is a vital one for the club's season.

Duffy told the BBC: “We are making a little bit of a habit of it, there is a relief because we didn't play great.

“The spirit of the squad is there and we never give up, we were down to ten men for ten minutes and the man on form at the moment put it away and got us another vital point."

The 29-year-old believes that Maupay is 'vital' to the success of Albion this season, not just for the goals that he has scored, including the equaliser against the Saints, but for the other aspects of his game.

The Argus: Shane Duffy has said that Neal Maupay is a "pest" for defenders, credit Liz FinlaysonShane Duffy has said that Neal Maupay is a "pest" for defenders, credit Liz Finlayson

He said: “I think all season he has been harshly criticised, in my opinion, he has missed a few chances but works so hard for the team and he is a vital part of the team, even if he is not scoring.

“What he does for the team with hold up play and he is a pest for defenders, and I think we see all the hard work he does and he gets his goals for his rewards.

“I could not be happier for him."

Duffy will have an extended rest after the weekend as he will miss the Tottenham game on Sunday due to suspension after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against the Saints.