West Brom boss lays down "show me" challenge to Karlan Grant

The Baggies boss admitted Grant has reacted 'well' to finding himself out of the starting XI and to "watch this space" when it comes the attacker's involvement.

Grant, 27, was a mainstay of the side in the first half of the campaign as he enjoyed an Albion renaissance under Carlos Corberan. He started against Stoke in front of a watching Mowbray and also in defeat at Middlesbrough in Mowbray's first match at the helm.

But Grant has been kicking his heels in the last two fixtures, including the 5-1 win over Portsmouth. After talks, Mowbray admitted the former Huddersfield man had asked about more involved and given examples of his good form prior to the former manager's return.

"If you were a footballer and I'm saying to you 'come through the door and have a chat'...I've said to them ten times in the last two weeks, if you have any questions," Mowbray said.

"I did, I used to go and talk to the manager. I'm the guy that if you come and ask me, I'll tell you. I did speak to Karlan and I think he appreciated the honesty I got.

"He told me what he thinks is his best role in the team and what he should be doing and that he thinks he's had a good season and he's been left out of the last few starts.

"Like anything, I need to see it. It's no good three or four weeks ago, when I wasn't here, you were doing this, scored that and made this - show me, mate. I need to see it.

"Don't sulk, I want you to be the best player in training everyday, so that I'd be stupid not to put you in the team. That's how I want them to react. It's like anything."

The head coach has opted for Jed Wallace and Grady Diangana as more unrecognised striker options. Mowbray has also said Mikey Johnston's form has made it tough for Grant to feature on the left flank.

There was late transfer window interest in Grant, who has six goals this term, from Burnley and Derby.

"Show me, if I've taken you out of the team for any reason...bottom line, I could say we scored five in the game you were left out," added the head coach.

"You played against Stoke, against Middlesbrough, we changed the team and scored five goals in the next one - what do you want me to do?

"Get yourself back in - make me think 'God, Karlan has got the bit between his teeth'. He's reacted well, so watch this space for Karlan Grant."