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The name on the lips of many fans over the last few weeks and months has been that of Craig Dawson's and it really is no surprise why. When the England U21 central defender came in last year and was included in the lineup, the Bolton defense experienced an overnight transformation. Suddenly, Wanderers looked strong at the back and were contenders where they had struggled before.
Dawson left prior to the season's final game against Blackpool and from that moment on, the fans wanted him back. The supporters were handed a glimmer of hope earlier this summer when Dawson's club, West Bromwich Albion, signed Uruguayan defender, Diego Lugano, from Paris Saint Germain on a two year deal. Dawson suddenly moved from a young backup on the bench with a chance to play to an outsider looking in.
Because it did not look like Dawson would get the playing time he so requires to continue his development and perhaps a return to Bolton Wanderers on at least a loan stint. It doesn't look like that will happen now with Dawson about to move up in the pecking order at West Brom.
Thus far this season, the first choice central defense pairing for the Baggies has been that of Liam Ridgewell and Gareth McCauley with Diego Lugano on the bench and the pair of Gabriel Tamas and Craig Dawson not involved. Speaking earlier this weekend, West Brom manager, Steve Clarke, has given Tamas permission to seek pastures new. Speaking in the Birmingham Mail, Clarke said:
"If I was a player in Gabi's position at his age I would be looking to play some matches.
"He might be happy here but maybe it's time for him to get his career moving again."
Tamas has been heavily linked with a move to Crystal Palace on deadline day but a reportedly high pay packet at the Hawthorns makes him want to stay and fight for his place.
Should Tamas go, it would seem that Albion would be keen to keep Dawson around for backup, especially in cup competitions.
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