Alex Mowatt anticipating more 'bold statements' from West Brom boss amid midfield options

Mowbray has made a number of changes in most of his seven Albion games so far, with four tweaks before their clash with Oxford United.

Albion went on to win the game 2-0, with Mowatt getting himself on the scoresheet with the opening goal.

The Baggies midfielder, who has been one of their most consistent performers throughout the campaign, explained how the competition for places in midfield has changed the performance levels on the training field.

And he has also stated how Mowbray's license for him to go and express himself further up the field is benefitting his game.

He said: "The levels have improved, there is a lot of competition.

"The gaffer is going to make bold statements, he will see certain players for certain games and make changes that suit the game.

"We have just got to train as we can and if we get the chance play as we can.

"We've definitely got the freedom to go and play.

"He says, I'm not going to tell you how to pass, you are professional footballers.

"He wants us to play forward, get shots off, and if we lose it then chase after the ball and counter attack, pin teams in.

"At the start of the season we didn't do that, we sprinted back to get into shape.

"So it is a little bit different, we are adapting and we will get better and better each week."

After returning to winning ways against United, Albion head to league leaders Leeds on Saturday lunchtime in what is going to be a difficult afternoon.

Mowatt will be returning to the side where he started his career as a youngster, and the Baggies midfielder added: "It is the first time that I will play there with fans.

"It is going to be a tough game, a difficult one.

"We will play our style and we wanted to go there and win the game."