Craig Dawson

Craig Dawson (born 6 May 1990) is an English professional footballer who plays for West Bromwich Albion as a defender. He previously played for Radcliffe Borough, Bolton Wanderers and Rochdale.

Club career

Radcliffe Borough

Prior to becoming a professional footballer, Dawson worked as a glass collector at his local pub, while playing for a local team called Rochdale St Clements. He started his football career at Northern Premier League side Radcliffe Borough in the middle of the 2007–08 season, and became a first team regular after just a few games. In the two seasons he was at the club he made 95 appearances and scored 15 goals. Dawson signed for his local club Rochdale in February 2009 on a two-year contract. Although a Rochdale player, Dawson stayed at Radcliffe on loan until the end of the season. In the season he left, he was voted the Player of the season by Radcliffe.

Rochdale

Dawson made his debut for Rochdale reserves, scoring a header from a corner against Manchester City. Dawson was set to make his debut in the second half of the 2008–09 season; however, was set back by injury. Dawson finally got his Rochdale debut on 8 August by starting in the League Two clash with Port Vale at Vale Park. The match ended in a 1–1 draw. Dawson's second game was at Hillsborough Stadium in the League Cup against Sheffield Wednesday. Despite conceding three goals, Rochdale fans gave Dawson rave reviews and named him man of the match.