Craig Dawson‘s influence cannot be underestimated.
At about £3m from West Ham in January 2023, the defender was an absolute steal for what he has given to Wolves and he has led by example.
Dawson’s nine-year spell at rivals West Brom has been forgotten because of his commitment and assured nature. He has often been the quiet lynchpin of a defence which has sometimes needed a senior head to guide it.
A groin injury forced him to miss the final 12 matches of last season. He did not play following the 3-0 defeat at Newcastle United in early March – and perhaps it was no coincidence Wolves’ form collapsed.
An FA Cup quarter-final exit to Coventry City and just two wins without Dawson in the run-in meant the side slipped out of European contention.
At 34, Dawson cannot be expected to go on forever, but Gary O’Neil knows he will be able to rely on him.
Craig Dawson,West Brom,Wolves,Gary O’Neil,West Ham,Newcastle United
