Dawson hopes to remain central to West Brom’s plans

In the absence of Jonny Evans team-mate Craig Dawson made the move from right-back to centre-back seamlessly for West Bromwich Albion, and hopes he can continue to make an impression.

Evans has struggled with a calf injury since the turn of the year.

But the Baggies have not suffered in his absence and have not deviated from eighth place in the Premier League table for two months.

Dawson, alongside Gareth McAuley, has been a key component in that.

And, though Evans marked his return to fitness with a late cameo appearance in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at West Ham United, he may find it tough to dislodge Dawson from the heart of the defence.

The 26-year-old, who has been at the Hawthorns since 2010, is enjoying his role away from the right side and would be happy to continue there, should boss Tony Pulis see fit.

“Hopefully I’ll continue this run in the team in the centre,” said Dawson. “I’ll always be happy to do a job for the team where I’m needed most.

“But I enjoy playing in the centre, it’s where I feel most comfortable.

“I need to keep learning and keep improving.

“Fingers crossed I can keep putting in good performances between now and the end of the season.”