First-class Kiely impresses Mowbray

Last updated : 14 May 2009 By Wba-mad Editor

Tony Mowbray has commended the attitude of stand-in goalkeeper Dean Kiely after his outstanding performance against Wigan Athletic last Saturday

Evergreen ‘Deano’ helped Albion gain three essential points with a number of reflex saves during the 3-1 win on his first start of the season.

The Republic of Ireland stopper has been understudy to Scott Carson all season but pulled on the No.1 jersey after a hand injury to the England international in training on Thursday.  Now, after Kiely’s eye-catching show, Mowbray has been given a welcome selection headache for the forthcoming Liverpool game.

"Dean has had a first-class attitude to his situation this year," the Baggies boss revealed.

"He is clearly very positive about playing and has great confidence in his ability.

"He obviously wants to play but he has understood the situation we're in and he hopefully understood the club's situation and where we were when we were going into the Premier League.

"He had decisions to make about whether he wanted to play regularly or whether he was happy to stay, sit on the bench and compete for a place in the team.

"Ultimately, that's what's happened and as a keeper you always know you are one wrong decision by the keeper in the team away from playing.

"It could be a sending off for handling the ball outside the box or bringing somebody down.

"You are always close to being thrust into the fray.

"That's what has happened because of an injury to Scott, and Dean did very well."