ALAN Stubbs is ready and able to become a middle man again.

The defensive king-pin has seen his value rocket to £4 million during Wanderers' metoric rise back into the big time.

His inspirational performances over the last three seasons have enhanced the classy 24-year-old's reputation as one of the best young centre halves in England.

But he is more than willing to accept a new midfield challenge if he is asked to move forward.

As a versatile youngster Stubbs was equally at home in the middle of the field or at the back. But his physical development saw him establish himself at the heart of the defence where he has led the team by example and as skipper during the recent glory years.

His switch back into midfield for the last game at Brentford sparked suggestions that managers Roy McFarland and Colin Todd may see it as a role he could occupy in the Premiership.

"I don't know if they wanted me to play there just in that one game or if they see it as a more regular thing," he said.

"But if they wanted me to carry on in midfield that wouldn't bother me."

He added jokingly: "I enjoyed playing in midfield and used to think about a future in the position but when I saw how good Jason McAteer was I didn't fancy it as much."

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