West Bromwich Albion's Youssouf Mulumbu has hailed teammate Claudio Yacob as underrated and "unbelievable".

The duo have formed a strong midfield partnership this season, with Yacob's proficiency in the holding role granting Mulumbu the freedom to join attacks more often.

"He protects our defence really well and that gives me a little more freedom to play and go forward," Mulumbu told the Birmingham Mail. "In training we work really hard together.

"It helps that I speak a little Spanish and that's how we communicate - but Yacob is one player you do not need to speak to - he knows the role he can fill.

"Every time I play I know where he's going to be - I know his position. It is easy for us to communicate because we feel the same way."

Mulumbu, who has started all 11 of West Brom's Premier League games so far this season, added: "The best thing with Yacob is that he never stops running.

"He offers me protection. For me it is unbelievable how many balls he manages to win.

"When teams win quite often it is the striker who receives the praise. But when you see how far he runs, you'd be surprised - it's unbelievable."

Yacob has also featured in all of the Baggies' league matches this season, but two of the Argentine's appearances have been as a substitute.