Club News

Boss on Dawson and Tamas futures

Clarke reveals a defender could be on the move

STEVE Clarke has called on Craig Dawson to step up to the plate after revealing Gabriel Tamas could exit The Hawthorns before the summer transfer window shuts.

The Baggies boss bolstered his central defensive options earlier this month by signing Uruguay captain Diego Lugano to challenge first-team pairing Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley.

And, with 23-year-old Dawson waiting in the wings, Clarke admits Romania international Tamas’ Albion days look to be over after three-and-a-half years at the club for the 29-year-old.

“Gabi Tamas may go out before the window shuts,” he said.

“He hasn’t been involved for us in the recent matches and maybe it’s time for Gabi to get his career moving again.

“He’s been here a couple of years, he hasn’t made enough appearances, he’s a Romania international and he needs to play some football.

“So, it might help Gabi if he can get a move.

“If he’s still here after the window closes; he’s a quality player and I’d be happy to have him.

“But I think, at this stage, it would probably help Gabi if he could get playing somewhere else.

“Maybe he is happy here but, if I was a player of Gabi’s age, I’d be looking to play some matches.”

Dawson enjoyed a successful four-month loan spell at Bolton in the Championship during the second half of last season.

But Clarke is eager for him to begin establishing himself as a Barclays Premier League player with the Baggies.

“I’ve never talked about Craig Dawson going out on loan again – everyone else does!” he added.

“Craig’s got a big season this year.

“I want him to push to be in my first team.”