Dorrans impresses on debut for Baggies

Dec 22 2008 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

TONY Mowbray praised debutant Graham Dorrans after yesterday’s win over Manchester City.

The midfielder came on for Do-heon Kim in the 64th minute and played a part in Albion’s opener.

The £100,000 summer signing from Livingston was involved in the move which led to Luke Moore’s first goal for the club and went on to impress during his 30-minute appearance.

“Graham only gets into our squad because of his talent,” said Mowbray. “He shows it on the training ground.

“He’s outstanding on the pitch with his ability to manipulate the ball, create and play clever disguised passes.

“His best position is coming in from the left-hand side with his right foot and playing clever passes and shooting, taking the full-back out, but I played him in a more central role which I know he can do.

“Hopefully, it’s the start of a successful career for him at this football club.”

Mowbray marched on to the pitch at the final whistle yesterday and gathered the players together for a huddle before they acknowledged the home fans.

The boss explained the ritual.

“It was for the fans,” he said. “It’s important the fans know we are doing this for them.

“I’ve always said we’re in the entertainment business but we have to get results as well. It’s important they know that we are giving something back to them.

“We want them to know we appreciate them. It’s been a difficult time for us and the players but we believe we are playing well enough to compete.

“It’s important the fans stick with the team. Last week, against Sunderland... we aren’t as bad as that.

“To beat Man City was three points we could easily have had against Blackburn or other clubs.”