VETERAN CRAIG IS STILL SO DAWSOME

Boss's praise for rock at the heart of Wolves' backline

- Neil Moxley

WEST HAM supporters gave him the nickname of 'Ballon d'Awson' - and Wolves boss Gary O'Neil says he's showing no signs of slowing down.

The veteran defender today returns to the East End where he gave three years of solid service before jumping ship to Molineux 12 months ago.

Dawson turns 34 in the new year and has been a mainstay as the Black Country club righted itself after Bruno Lage's spell in charge.

O'Neil (right) says he identifies with Dawson as he himself played until well into his 30s - and he says there is no sign of the centre-half fraying around the edges.

He said: "Dawse doesn't need any allowances in training. He's not at that point-yet.

"He'll probably be offended by the fact that we're even discussing this.