BILLY Jones’ dedication to training was always going to be rewarded with Premier League football.

That’s the view of former Albion midfielder and Jones’ ex-team-mate Darren Carter, who spent four years at Preston with the Baggies man.

Jones has recently come back into the Albion side due to Steven Reid’s injury – producing a man-of-the-match performance against title-chasing Manchester City and impressing at Tottenham in midweek.

Carter is not surprised. He revealed how Jones’ attitude to football and training was always going to pay off in the longer term.

And he feels Albion picked up an excellent signing when they brought in the free transfer from North End at the end of last season.

“You could always tell Billy would end up in the Premier League,” said Carter, who is currently a commentator for BRMB as he recovers from injury.

“We used to laugh about it because he was always in the gym at Preston – you’d ask ‘where’s Billy?’ and, sure enough, he’d be in the gym.

“And he would always have a water bottle in his hand, hydrating himself.

“I don’t think he ever lets his hair down.

“He’s a fantastic professional, who is just completely dedicated to everything about football. He’s not one of these who trains and goes straight home – he works at it.

“He puts the hours in, which is something people don’t appreciate.

“I’m sure he’s about six per cent body fat.