Dean Hammond has been backed to quickly win over his critics in his second spell with Albion.

The former captain is line to replace injured Andrew Crofts in central midfield against Sheffield Wednesday tonight and manager Gus Poyet is convinced his season-long loan signing from Southampton will be a hit with supporters.

Poyet said: “Dean Hammond knows the division and how to get out of the division. He has the quality to play in our system very easily in terms of the technical and tactical ability.

“He has got presence in both boxes which we have missed sometimes. He knows the club and the city so he was very happy to come here. He is going to be the easiest player to convince the fans how much he wants to play.”

Hammond has already apologised for an ear-cupping celebration after scoring against Albion for Southampton at Withdean three seasons ago. That angered fans and caused some of them to be sceptical about his return.

Poyet said: “Maybe people were having a little bit of a doubt with Deano, because of what happened a few years ago. I think that is absolutely rubbish. That shows the passion he has got for the game and how much it means for him to win. He is going to show that.”