ALBION’S midfield axis of Youssouf Mulumbu and Paul Scharner has been picked out as the crucial hub of the club’s survival campaign.

Baggies coach Keith Downing has been impressed with both players this season.

Mulumbu has been arguably Albion’s most consistent performer, picking up a succession of man-of-the-match awards for his displays during the campaign.

Scharner has been perhaps a little less consistent with his form, although his displays have been of a high standard in recent weeks.

Off the field he is regarded as a sound professional – albeit occasionally outspoken – often working late, arriving early for training and maintaining a strict fitness regime throughout his career.

Speaking about the Austrian, Downing told the Birmingham Mail: “There has been a flexibility with Scharner playing centre-back and in midfield.

“I think the new manager sees Scharner as a foil with Mulumbu to provide that solidity.

“They have both done very well together in the three or four games they have played together.

“And here is a massive focus to Paul’s game.

“He does extra training and extra bits. His professionalism is noticeable.

“He’s always one of the first in, does extra work in the gym and out on the field.

“He certainly has a purpose to his football, even at his age he has that drive to try and get better.”

Speaking about Mulumbu, Downing added: “I think the way Roy wants to shape his team makes those two central midfield players very important for us.