West Bromwich Albion boss Alan Irvine was delighted for matchwinner Craig Garder after victory over Aston Villa.

The Baggies beat their local rivals 1-0 at The Hawthorns thanks to Gardner's first goal for the club.

Gardner, a Birmingham City fan, ran to the bench to celebrate his goal with the head coach in a display of unity and Irvine was delighted for the midfielder.

"My hand is still stinging so I might ask him to go somewhere else next time - he's been a great professional since he first came in," said Irvine.

"He's been absolutely desperate to score, it means so much for him to score. I think he was a West Brom fan today.

"I'm so glad for him, he came so close last week with the free kick which looked a goal from the moment he struck it."