Shane Long hails Steve Clarke impact at West Bromwich Albion

West Bromwich Albion striker Shane Long has praised the impact of manager Steve Clarke following Sunday's 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.

The point at Villa Park means that the Baggies have lost just one of their opening six matches in the Premier League this season.

"He has instilled a bit of confidence and you can see that in the way we get the ball down and pass it," said Long, who opened the scoring in the Midlands derby.

"What you see on the pitch is what we are doing in training, day in and day out."

Long's goal against Villa was the Republic of Ireland international's fourth of the campaign.