PAUL Scharner has promised more madcap haircuts if he becomes a firm fans' favourite at The Hawthorns.

The Austria international became renowned for his wacky 'barnets' during his four-and-a-half years at previous club Wigan.

He bid a fond farewell to Latics supporters by dyeing his hair white and colouring the word 'THANX' in blue on the back of his head, in his final appearance at the DW Stadium.

And he believes fan-power is key to him proving himself as a Barclays Premier League midfielder with Albion.

"I decided to leave to pursue and develop my career," said Scharner, who has been handed the No.33 shirt.

"Wigan didn't give me a chance to play in midfield but it was emotional because I was there for four and a half years.

"It was a hard decision to make.

"I feel I can get opportunities here which I didn't get at Wigan, such as playing in midfield - and I was also a free agent.

"My hairstyle was a big thank you to the supporters at Wigan.

"They created a song for me and I had to do something.

"I am known for my crazy hairstyles so that's why I did it.

"It was a big surprise. I might do it again.

"It was a hairdresser in Wigan who did it but it was only sprayed on, not permanent.

"My wife thought it was okay because it was my only scandal - I don't drink or punch people!"

He added: "I think supporters are important to a team.

"If you have them behind you then you can push on.

"It's a hand-to-hand situation.

"We can't play well without them and they need us to offer support."

The 30-year-old signing believes he will be fit in time for Albion's game against Tottenham next Saturday (ko 3pm).

"I am feeling very fit," insisted Scharner.

"I trained a lot in Germany, Austria and Birmingham.

"I think it should take one-and-a-half weeks to be properly match fit.

"But I'm confident I'll be ready soon.

"If selected for the next game then, yes, I will be ready - definitely."

He is focusing solely on his role with the Baggies at the moment but does not consider his international career to be over.

And he hopes he can do enough to win the chance to add to his 30 caps for Austria in their next set of Euro 2012 Group A qualifiers in October.

"It's not over for me," he added.

"Because I've not played for a team - I've not been picked this time.

"But maybe in October I will be."