Kiely made several impressive saves against Wigan

West Brom manager Tony Mowbray says goalkeeper Dean Kiely has shown a "first-class attitude" during a season largely on the bench at The Hawthorns.

The 38-year-old made his first Premier League appearance of the season in the win over Wigan because of injury to regular starter Scott Carson.

"Dean has had a first-class attitude to his situation this year," said Mowbray.

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

"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.

While he is not happy, he appears content to get on with it, help a young goalkeeper progress and try to grasp his chance when it comes Tony Mowbray on Dean Kiely

"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."

Republic of Ireland international Kiely signed a one-year extension to his contract in January, committing him to the Baggies until next summer.

"My relationship with Dean has been good enough to keep that bond pretty strong," said Mowbray.

"If Dean had wanted to go he would have knocked on my door and asked me and I would probably have said 'yes' to him if that's what he wanted.

"I wouldn't keep a 38-year-old and deprive him of playing football, and yet I think he enjoys the environment he is working in.

"While he is not happy, he appears content to get on with it, help a young goalkeeper progress and try to grasp his chance when it comes."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version