James Morrison happy to be man in the middle for West Bromwich Albion

Jul 23 2008 By Chris Lepkowski

JAMES Morrison aims to convince Tony Mowbray to hand him a central midfield berth in the absence of Robert Koren.

The Scotland midfielder scored a stunning long-range goal late on to level the scores in last night’s draw at Shrewsbury.

It was the second cracking goal of the night following Do-Heon Kim’s 25-yard screamer.

It is looking increasing likely Koren will be out for the remainder of pre-season and maybe even the opener at Arsenal.

With that in mind, Morrison wants to cement his place in the centre of the park, a position he feels most confident with despite spending much of his career so far playing on the right-hand side.

But he admits manager Tony Mowbray may have other ideas.

“I would like to think there’s a chance for me maybe,” said the ex-Middlesbrough man.

“But I’ll have to wait and see because players may come in.

“All I can do is maintain my form and keep myself in the gaffer’s thoughts.

“As for the goal, I think mine was better.

“The lads said mine took a deflection but I’m not so sure.

“It’s nice to get a goal and it was good for Kim as well.

“Kim’s a good player and that’s what we need at the club. He’s adapted well to English football and our style of play.”