Roberto Di Matteo backs Scott Carson to return to form for West Bromwich Albion

Mar 9 2010 by Christopher Lepkowski, Birmingham Mail

“Scott will have to be strong mentally and physically to get through the next 12 games.

“We have had some ups and downs and I have to say our supporters in our last home game against Derby were magnificent.

“It was one of the best performances by the supporters and I think that helped the team a lot.

“Scott is a top professional. I remember when (Gianluigi) Buffon had a bit of a dodgy time and Buffon was one of the best keepers in the world at the time, a few years back now.

“It happens. You can have a bad game and as a keeper you are exposed.

“Scott is not green behind the ears and he just has to react, get over it and put it right and be mentally strong for the next game.”

Di Matteo is not underestimating the importance of tonight’s game following Nottingham Forest’s move back up to second.

The Baggies could move into an automatic promotion spot and to within six points of leaders Newcastle if they win tonight.

“We know it is a must-win game for us,” added Di Matteo.

“But first of all we need to make sure we work hard and we match every team for all the basics.

“That means the fighting, the tackling and all that stuff, and hopefully in the long-term our quality will shine.

“We haven’t had much time to work on defending, shape and work like that in recent weeks and we’ve had a few changes in personnel.

“But also we need to pay more attention and that’s what I’ve said to the team.”