The 31-year-old had been operating alongside Curtis Davies at the heart of the back four but on Sunday was switched to right-back for the derby clash with Aston Villa.

But Watson was still able to show the attacking instincts which had meant him having spells up front at Newcastle and Everton and he came closest to snatching victory with a shot cleared off the line by Villa defender Gary Cahill.

Robson said: “When I signed him, I said that Steve, as a utility player, was very good at every club he has been at, and that has most certainly been the case for us as well.

“At Newcastle he even played at centre-forward alongside Andy Cole at one time and he did a very good job and scored quite a few goals for them.

“He played in every position when he went to Everton including striker and, although he hasn’t played up front for us, has been virtually everywhere at some stage in midfield or defence.

“He has got a good footballing brain. That’s why I brought him into the squad. Having someone who can perform well in several positions is important, especially when injuries and suspensions kick in and reduce your numbers.

“I hadn’t seen play at centre-half as many times as I had at right-back or midfield but he has always impressed me to a certain degree whenever I’ve seen Steve play.”

Robson is determined to try to stay upbeat despite Albion not being rewarded for a string of encouraging performances with anything tangible.

He said: “If we maintain the level of performance like against the Manchester Uniteds, Chelseas and Tottenhams, harnessed to work-rate and endeavour, then somewhere down the line we will get the breaks.”