On-loan defender hopeful he build on a positive first team debut in the coming weeks
Craig Dawson was delighted to make a winning start to life with Wanderers at the weekend, and he is now confident that his defensive partnership with Zat Knight can continue to flourish over the following weeks.
Dawson joined the Trotters on a three-month loan from West Bromwich Albion in January, and he made his debut for the Whites in the side’s derby day victory over the Clarets on Saturday.
The central defender has been encouraged by the quality on show in Dougie Freedman’s squad, and he is confident that Wanderers can now string a run of results together beginning with Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
“I really enjoyed the win and playing alongside Zat Knight,” the 22-year-old said. “Zat’s got great experience so it was great to work with him. We did well together to restrict Burnley to so few chances and, hopefully, we can continue this partnership.
“I’ve been here a few weeks so I’ve got a feel for the place, and Dougie and his squad have welcomed me into the squad.
“I’ve enjoyed the few weeks training that I’ve had and I felt comfortable slotting in at the back. I’m still getting my match fitness, but the 90 minutes from Saturday will help me as we move into next week.
“It was a good win. They scored but we showed good spirit to get back into the game and the subs really made an impact on the game. It was a bit of a strange goal to concede and they didn’t really create many clear-cut chances.
“At the other end, Jay Spearing put some great deliveries in there and maybe, on another day, I could have had a goal, but it wasn’t to be. But it’s always nice to keep them out at the other end and that’s the most important thing.
“We’ve got a great squad here and you could see that when the subs came on and changed the game. We just have to keep building and keep pushing.
“The win has definitely given us confidence which we can now take into next weekend’s game at Nottingham Forest.”