Boro boss pleased with left back’s focus after FA Cup drama

GRAHAM WESTLEY has paid tribute to Scott Laird’s mentality in the wake of Boro’s FA Cup victory over Newcastle United earlier this month.

Laird became the focus of the nation’s media after the 22-year-old was punched to the floor by a spectator following the final whistle against the Magpies but Westley has praised his left-back-cum-winger for his ability to remain focused only on his football.

“You’ve got to give him credit for concentrating on his football which is what he wanted to do at the time and what he’s carried on doing,” said Westley.

“He’s a great lad. What a prospect – he’s so young but he’s such a trustworthy player and you know what you’re going to get from him week-in, week-out.”

Laird scored his second goal of the season on Saturday against Morecambe after being deployed on the left wing while also providing the assist for the second goal and his manager was not surprised to see him have such an impact on the match.

“One of the things I love about so many of our players is their versatility,” added Westley.

“Whether Lairdy (Scott Laird) is played at left back or left midfield or whether Darius is played at left back or centre half or up top they are professional footballers and they take on the responsibility of their position and they go about their work in a fabulous way.

“Versatility is such an important feature as it keeps people involved and it’s testament to the attitude of the lads that they’re not precious about their position but they play for the team.

“These boys love the game and it’s where their focus is day-in, day-out and they put hours and hours in to become better players and I can only see them going one way a lot of them.”