Scapegoat Richard Chaplow steps back into the firing line tonight, telling his critics they will only spur him on in Albion’s promotion quest.

The 22-year-old midfielder returns to his first club Burnley in line for a recall following the suspension of Darren Carter.

Chaplow was taken out of the side by manager Tony Mowbray after the disastrous home defeat by Stoke which saw the former England Under 21 midfielder come in for more stick from disgruntled Hawthorns fans.

Chaplow has become their favourite target during the team’s slide from the automatic promotion challenge but the midfielder is determined the boo boys will not ruin his Albion career.

“They were starting to get on people’s backs because results weren’t going our way and I could hear the moaning when I gave the ball away a couple of times,” he admitted.

“They are entitled to their opinion. They pay their money week in, week out to support the team.

“I spoke to the gaffer and we both know where we stand. It was just a case of giving me a rest after 16 games starting, I know I’d got a little sloppy and I hold my hand up to that.

“I was more than happy to step aside and let someone else in. I haven’t got any problems with them having a moan.”