No worries over Phillips' form

Last updated : 26 February 2008 By Wba-mad Editor

Tony Mowbray has given Kevin Phillips his full backing as the striker searches for a return to scoring ways. 'Super-Kev' has gone four games without scoring during a sequence of results which has seen the Baggies drop down to the fourth. But with an impressive scoring record through an illustrious career Mowbray believes it is only a matter of time before Phillips increases his season tally.


"I've got no concern with Kevin," Mowbray said.


"He's still top scorer in this division.


"He's fine and I'm sure Kevin has gone through many spells of four games without scoring.


"I wouldn't call it a drought by a long shot.


"You can't sit here and criticise any of our strikers.


"They've all scored goals all season long.


"We just need to keep going."


Despite suffering ankle and knee injuries this term Phillips has already notched up 17 goals this term, and along with the impressing form of Roman Bednar, Ishmael Miller and Craig Beattie, Albion's four main strikers have scored a total of 47 goals between them.


Mowbray is now looking forward to the impact new arrival Luke Moore will have on his team and with the Albion chief impressed by the youngster's 29-minute debut against Hull.

"Luke's here because he's got the raw technical ability and pace to isolate defenders and get into areas to score or create goals for other people," Mowbray continued.

"It creates competition and intensity in training and Friday's training session was good and sharp and there were no signs we'd produce a poor first half-hour on Saturday.

"I made enquiries with people I know have good connections with Aston Villa about Luke's personality and his temperament.

"His talent is there for anyone to see and I've got a clear picture in my mind of what his personality is.

"Ultimately, Luke's here now with an opportunity to hopefully play more than he did at Villa.

"Hopefully, if there is any frustration, Luke can unleash it for us - and that's quite a potent weapon."