Slaven Bilic impressed by honest approach of West Brom counterpart Tony Pulis
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has praised the work done by West Brom boss Tony Pulis ahead of their Barclays Premier League clash on Sunday.
Bilic believes Pulis' approach deserves more credit despite the fact it has previously been criticised by managers and the media.
The former Stoke and Crystal Palace manager was criticised for the way he set his team up to face Manchester United but Bilic hailed the "honesty" of Pulis' football philosophy.
"Tony Pulis gets criticised for his brand of football, but he doesn't hide it like others," the Croatian said.
"There are a lot of clubs playing exactly the same way in many parts of the game. In England, they all sit back when opponents have a direct attacking style.
"He is a great coach and a very honest man."
Bilic is hoping to turn West Ham's fortunes around after their 4-1 thrashing against London rivals Tottenham last week but acknowledges that Albion, who are 12th in the table, are going to be a tough opponent to beat.
"I watched Albion against Everton in September when they lost 3-2 at home. They were winning 2-0 and scored the second goal after 54 minutes.
"They played good football which was enjoyable to watch. They weren't 2-0 up because of set-pieces alone or negative tactics.
"Of course, Pulis' teams are very well organised and every team in the Premier League have quality now.
"They have Saido Berahino, Salomon Rondon, Rickie Lambert and Stephane Sessegnon - all players who give them pace, goals and a physical presence.
"That is the strength of this league."
Bilic described Pulis as "pragmatic" and knows any side managed by the Welshman is one which will be hard to crack.
He said: "He is very passionate and understands football in many different leagues across Europe.
"I respect him also because he never tells lies, even though you can bend the truth in football when the result allows you to.
"His West Brom team achieved a big win against Arsenal, but he said they were lucky and needed to defend very well.
"He is pragmatic. He uses what he has to to achieve reasonable objectives.
"When critics put a label on you, it sticks - even if your teams are not like that week in, week out."
Bilic must make a decision on who will replace the suspended Mark Noble in the Hammers' midfield, with either Pedro Obiang or Alex Song set to start.
Pulis has told West Brom fans he can create another legacy if they give him time at the Hawthorns.
The Baggies boss has been under fire from supporters for Albion's style this season, despite the club sitting 12th in the Barclays Premier League.
Pulis led Stoke to the FA Cup final in 2011, losing to Manchester City, and took them to Europe during seven years at the Britannia Stadium.
He believes he can do the same at West Brom if given time and patience.
He said: "It was exactly the same at (Crystal) Palace, these clubs are very similar. They are clubs who have potential to be top 10 and better Premier League clubs and ones which can win cup competitions. That's what you have to strive for but you need time.
"There wasn't a problem last year, you lose games and there are people who are going to criticise. That's the nature of the game. You have to understand that as a manager. If you lose games and things don't go well you are going to get criticised.
"I don't lose any sleep over it. I haven't been in the job a year yet. I like the club and I enjoy the club. There are things which can be changed and improved but that doesn't happen for a period of time.
"There's a big job on at this football club. I have a good relationship with Jeremy (Peace, chairman) but you hope you get the opportunity and chance. That chance doesn't come if you are losing games. You are always juggling as a manager. You have to win games to have a chance and opportunity to change things."
Gareth McAuley is back from suspension but Chris Brunt is banned after collecting his fifth yellow card of the season in the win over the Gunners.
Pulis refused to name those players who are doubtful for the game at Upton Park but confirmed he is worried over several men.
He added: "We have picked up a few injuries and it's a bit of a concern. We won't know until Sunday morning but there are one or two knocks and niggles which have come out of the Arsenal game."
Source: DSG
