Ryan Mason hailed match-winning goalscorer Nat Phillips for his defensive performance alongside debutant Chris Mepham in the victory at Stoke City.
The West Bromwich Albion manager told BBC Radio WM: "Obviously he scored the winner but probably more importantly, (he did well) in our defensive box as well.
"He was outstanding, the sort of performance you get when you bring in a man ready to compete.
"He was mature and led by example but Chris alongside him was outstanding as well. He's had one training session and a performance like that makes me very happy.