Craig Dawson tipped to be a bargain

New Albion signing Craig Dawson was today backed to be a Baggies bargain - by his current Rochdale manager.

Dale boss Keith Hill offered a ringing endorsement of the 20-year-old, who joined the Baggies on deadline day in a £600,000 deal from the League One club.

Dawson rejoined Dale on loan for the remainder of the season.

But Hill, who signed the centre-back from non-league Radcliffe Borough, has insisted the 6ft 2in stopper will eventually excel for Albion.

"I wish people would start believing me when I tell them how good he is," said Hill. "I consider him to be at least capable of playing in the Premier League.

"I know I don't have a lot of experience dealing with Premier League players or dealing in that perspective but football is football and I know a footballer when I see one.

"I know what Craig has got and what he's capable of doing in football and people need to start listening.

"West Brom will realise that he will be one major asset in the Premier League.

"He's a superb player and it was evident last week against Birmingham in the Carling Cup.

"We wanted to keep him at Rochdale because he's done excellently. Despite all the speculation over his future, he's continued to play football at a very high level.

"Craig will serve us well in League One and it's important for him to play at this standard now.

"He's young but he's also mature for his age and people in the footballing world will soon realise what a talent he is. His future is bright — there's no question about it.

"This is a great piece of business for all parties and certainly the best piece of business since I have been at the club.

"We are really pleased for Craig as he has achieved what he wants, West Brom have secured the most talented young defender in the country.

"We are pleased that the club has been recognised and rewarded for the efforts we have made in Craig's development."