West Brom reject Craig Dawson transfer request

The young centre-back joined midfielder George Thorne in asking to leave The Hawthorns, presenting Irvine with a fresh problem to address when he meets his squad next month.

Albion turned down Dawson's request immediately last night as Burnley considered a fresh bid for the former England Under-21 international.

But the club expect both Thorne and Dawson to step up their attempts to leave when the players return for pre-season training on July 7.

The Clarets had a £1m bid for 24-year-old Dawson rejected earlier this month but they are expected to resume their pursuit.

Both Burnley and Derby, who have had two bids rejected for Thorne, have been told none of the Baggies' players are for sale with Irvine keen to assess his entire squad next month.

The new head coach today received a ringing endorsement from striker Victor Anichebe, who worked with Irvine at Everton when the Scot was assistant to boss David Moyes.

"I know Alan really well, he's the one who brought me through at Everton," said Anichebe.

"He was the one who took a lot of the training sessions with David Moyes when I was younger.

"He was a huge part of what happened when I first came through. Everton were doing really well and he was a huge part of that, he's a great coach.

"I think Alan will always give us great training sessions and we'll always know what we need to do out on the pitch. You won't go out unprepared.

"Alan plays a good style of football as well.

"I know a lot of people at Everton who wouldn't disagree with me, they will also say he's a great coach.

"The players will enjoy great training sessions, they will enjoy the way he plays and they will enjoy his character as a person, especially the younger players.

"They're the ones who are going to be the future and we've got a few really good, exciting young players. He will give them a chance if they're up for it and they're eager.

"I think that's something Albion fans should look forward to."