CITY KEEP AN EYE ON LAWAL

Versatile Bosun faces a race against time to face Blackburn after suffering midweek setback

- Peter Smith

Bosun Lawal was withdrawn in the closing stages of the draw at Middlesbrough with a suspected hamstring issue.

BOSUN Lawal is a doubt for Stoke City's trip to Blackburn this weekend after proving his versatility with an impressive turn in another position.

Mark Robins joked he could play Lawal anywhere, including in goal, after seeing him shine at right-back in Tuesday night's goalless draw with Middlesbrough - when he limped off with a hamstring worry in the closing stages.

Lawal, aged 22, has been getting rave reviews starting the first seven league games at centre-half next to Ben Wilmot while he started two cup games in central midfield.

He kept a handle on Boro star man Tommy Conway in his new role while growing into the game as an attacking threat as it went on, setting up an excellent chance for Robert Bozenik.