Appleton was a trainee at Man Utd

Michael Appleton has played his first competitive match for West Brom after 15 months on the sidelines.

The midfielder turned out for the reserves against his former club Manchester United on Monday.

Appleton managed 28 minutes of action after recovering from cruciate knee ligament damage.

The 27-year-old injured himself during training just seven months after joining the Baggies from Preston.

And there were early fears the injury could put an end to his career.

Appleton, who never gave up hope of playing again, looked in impressive form on his comeback.

His return to the Baggies squad would be a boost for boss Gary Megson as they battle relegation from the top flight.