Graham Dorrans just gets better and better, says West Brom boss

Oct 5 2009 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

GRAHAM Dorrans is getting better and better, according to Albion boss Roberto Di Matteo.

The 22-year-old was outstanding in Albion’s 0-0 draw at Preston North End and was unfortunate not to score a winner.

Dorrans’ form has certainly been noted among the club’s coaching staff, with the Scottish under-21 international now a regular in the centre of midfield.

More established players Robert Koren and Filipe Teixeira are having to make do with more peripheral roles or, in the Slovenian’s case, featuring in a less favoured position.

Di Matteo heaped more praise on Dorrans. “We had chances on Saturday and he has certainly been playing well,” said the Italian.

“It seems that every game he plays he gets better.

“He looks very dangerous when he is on the ball and is technically good.

“He looked very sharp. He should have scored a goal for us.

‘‘He did well and is making good progress.

“The all-around performance by the team was very good.”

Albion now have a fortnight’s break before their next game, against Reading at The Hawthorns.

Di Matteo is looking forward to having some of his injured players back – including Luke Moore and Chris Brunt – with James Morrison also expected to start training. Jerome Thomas will also be back from his three-match ban for the visit of the Royals.

Albion’s head coach intends making the most of the next few weeks, to ensure his side are well drilled at the back following their clean sheet on Saturday.

“We need to improve on our defensive side and get our injured players back because they are good players and very important for our team,” added Di Matteo.

“It’s a tough league as everyone says and we’re going to be working on the areas we feel we need to.

“Hopefully we can kick on after the international break, with a few players back from injury as well.”

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