Dorrans backs 'passionate' Appleton

10 February 2011 14:07
Midfielder disappointed at Di Matteo axe, but give support to temporary boss Graham Dorrans insists the whole of the Albion squad is behind Michael Appleton ahead of this weekend’s clash with West Ham. The Scotland international admits his disappointment at Roberto Di Matteo being shown the door, but believes the players will give temporary head-coach Appleton 100% commitment during his time in charge. Dorrans says that Appleton has played a significant part in his development at The Hawthorns following his switch south from Livingston. And the midfielder, who is set to return from an ankle injury against the Hammers, says that Appy’s motivation skills are sure to rub off on the players. “Everyone knows what Appy's like,” Dorrans said. "He's been here the whole time I've been here. "In my first season when I wasn't really in the first team Appy was great with me. "He has helped me a lot. "He's a passionate man about football and wants to win every game he's involved in. "Hopefully that will rub off on the players and we'll get that win on Saturday. "He is a great football man and this could be his chance to get into football management. Appleton was forced to retire through a knee injury during his own playing days at The Hawthorns. But Dorrans insists the former midfielder's drive and determination he was famous for is still present as a coach. "Everyone in the game knows what he's like," he added. "He just wants us to work hard, put teams under pressure and win no matter what. "We've got a team-meeting tomorrow and we'll see how it goes. "It has been a tough time but everyone is sticking together. "Appy's been fantastic here and hopefully we get a result on Saturday that will lift us all and we can kick on from there." Do you believe Appleton will be able to motivate Albion's players against West Ham? Have you say at Baggies Banter here

Source: FOOTYMAD