Boss backs Beattie

Tony Mowbray has urged Scotland international Craig Beattie to kick-start his season with a flurry of goals after his winner at The Walkers Stadium. The former Celtic man took his tally of goals to the season to three with his sublime strike against Leicester after a frustrating start for the 23-year old striker.

After suffering a stop-start campaign due to international commitments with Scotland and a host of niggling injuries, the Albion boss is sure the forward can carry his scoring form into the home visit of Charlton Athletic (KO 12.45).

"I would suggest that if Craig keeps scoring goals like he did at the weekend things will change," Mowbray said.

"It wasn't that long ago people thought we had a world-beater on our hands when he scored a pre-season hat-trick against Heerenveen."

Beattie has seen fellow strikers Kevin Phillips, Ishmael Miller and Roman Bednar prefered in attack in recent weeks, however Mowbray believes his winning strike can only help to breed confidence to the £1.25 million pound summer signing.

"Craig, like most goalscorers, breeds off confidence and I'm sure he's aware of any negativity towards him.

"That's why I'm so delighted he got such a fantastic goal.

Beattie last started for the Baggies 13 matches ago in the 1-1 home draw against Stoke City however his wonder strike came as no surprise to the Albion boss who enjoys the pleasure of witnessing Beattie's talents regularly in training.

"He made it look easy," Mowbray continued.

"It was a very deliberate finish.

"He does that every day in training.

"It wasn't a cross that was swung in.

"It wasn't a fluke.

"It was a hard side-foot bender into the top corner which is almost a trademark for him."