Chris Brunt has told West Brom a new contract for team-mate Gareth McAuley is "a no-brainer".
McAuley's previous deal has expired but the 35-year-old defender is mulling over a one-year extension with the Baggies.
As a proven Barclays Premier League performer potentially available on a free transfer he has drawn interest from the likes of Leicester, but Brunt hopes his Northern Ireland colleague remains at the Hawthorns.
Speaking ahead of Saturday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Romania, where both men are set for key roles, midfielder Brunt said: "I'm quite surprised it's in the situation it is. It would be a no-brainer for me.
"He's a guy who plays every week in the Premier League. People keep speaking about his age but if you see him day to day in training he's an extremely fit lad.
"For the age of him he's a bit of a freak really and for him to keep grinding the level of performance he does week in, week out...it's just a no brainer.
"Ever since he got back in the side around Christmas time he's never looked back. He's pretty much been like that ever since he joined the club, so hopefully they get that sorted."
Source: PA
