Pulis: Lambert a throwback to when players cared

Tony Pulis saluted Rickie Lambert as “a throwback to the times when footballers cared about football” after West Brom’s 1-1 draw at West Ham.

West Ham led through Mauro Zarate’s superb first-half free-kick but were made to pay for some missed chances when Rickie Lambert’s shot was deflected in by Winston Reid just five minutes after the striker had been introduced as a half-time replacement for Stephane Sessegnon.

Lambert was still a regular in the England squad this time a year ago but now finds himself kicking his heels on the Baggies’ bench.

However, Pulis says the 33-year-old’s attitude has been exemplary.

“We were fortunate to get in the dressing room at half-time only 1-0 down, and then it was time for Rickie,” said Pulis.

“He’s a great professional. He has not played as much as he would have liked but his attitude is fantastic. The lads want to play and that’s something you have to deal with.

“Rickie is a throwback to the times when footballers cared about football, and he cares. He has been a terrific signing for this football club.”