ALBION are expected to resume their pursuit of John Carew this week, with assistant boss Eddie Newton claiming that the Villa striker would be ideal for the Baggies’ survival hopes.

The Baggies were close to landing Carew last week only for the player to be denied a move due to Emile Heskey’s dismissal against Sunderland.

But Carew was not included in Villa’s squad against Sheffield United and, despite reports claiming that Gerard Houllier will not sell, Albion remain confident of signing the 31-year-old.

Carew and Houllier have not seen eye to eye since their spell together at Lyon, with little prospect of a thaw in their relationship.

Albion are likely to test the water again this week, not least as Ishmael Miller went off with a hamstring injury.

Peter Odemwingie also has a minor ankle injury, although he is expected to be fit for Saturday’s visit of Blackpool.

Newton told the Birmingham Mail: “We are interested in Carew. There’s no doubt about that but we will see.

“It’s no secret we like him and we’ll see where it goes.

“We know what he would bring and that’s exactly the kind of person we’re talking about.

“We want people with big personalities.

“We need people who will be brave and stick in.

“Brave isn’t just about flying into tackles or putting your body on the line.

“It’s about wanting the ball and playing the ball when under pressure.”

Newton insists that Albion will not panic during the transfer market.