West Brom were disappointed after failing to sign a centre-back in January but the 26-year-old is compensating quite nicely.
It’s easily forgotten that, when West Brom plucked Craig Dawson from Rochdale in the summer of 2010, they were swooping for one of the countries’ most talented young centre-halves.
And, for as long as living memory allows, Dawson has been a nailed on starter for The Baggies – albeit at right back.
At 6ft 2ins and with no Premier League assists to his name since 2013/14, the 26-year-old is far from the typical modern full-back though his height and versatility means he has been a virtual ever present in Tony Pulis’ old-school flat back four.
However, for the first time in over two years, Dawson is back in his natural habitat at the heart of the defence. Despite Jonny Evans being passed fit ahead of West Brom’s 2-2 draw with West Ham on Saturday, he retained his place with England boss Gareth Southgate watching on from above.
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And, after another eye-catching display, Dawson admits that he wants to make the central defensive role his own again.
“Obviously it’s the position I want to play in,” Dawson told the Express and Star. “If needed I can always fill in at right back but personally I’d like to keep my position at centre-half and will be working hard to try and do that.”
Consequently, Pulis can breathe a sigh of relief after being left frustrated by The Baggies inability to bring in another centre-back in January.
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Swansea City refused to sanction Federico Fernandez’s departure while Jose Fonte was tempted by a move to the capital, according to the Birmingham Mail, but Dawson’s recent performances suggest the answer was right under Pulis’ nose.
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