BLACKBURN Rovers boss Paul Lambert insists there is nothing wrong with Tony Watt’s attitude – and has backed the striker to become even better.

Watt returned to Rovers this week after making a boyhood dream a reality when he won his first full Scotland cap in their international friendly win in Czech Republic.

But before the Prague clash Tartan Army assistant manager Mark McGhee claimed that, while the 22-year-old has ‘unbelievable ability’, he is the ‘sort of player I would love to get a hold of and smack around’.

Lambert understands and agrees with McGhee’s sentiment that Watt does need to improve his fitness.

The former Celtic starlet is yet to complete a full 90 minutes for Rovers since his initial loan move from Championship rivals Charlton Athletic in January.

But over the past three months his manager has seen a player who wants to and is willing to improve in an effort to fulfil his potential.

“He’s probably read some of my comments,” joked Lambert when asked about what McGhee had said.

“Tony is one of those lads who makes things happen. He’s a really exciting player to watch but he does have to get that base of fitness in him.

“But he’s a willing learner and he wants to do well.

“He’s a really good lad as well, he’s great about the place, and everybody loves him here.

“Yes he’s got to get more fitness and get more about him but talent wise and ability wise he’s got that in abundance.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

Watt is pushing for a recall to the starting line-up for this afternoon’s derby clash at home to Preston North End (12.30pm kick-off) after an impressive cameo in the 1-0 win at Brentford before the international break.

And Lambert added: “I’ve got no complaints with Tony and the way his attitude is.

“It might seem a bit downbeat at times but he’s not that. He’s not like that.

“He’s a good lad, he works hard, and I really do think there’s so much more to come from him.

“But whatever club he’s at he has to meet the coaching staff halfway. You need a player to come to you and want to do it.

“And the good thing about him is he wants to do that.”

Watt will remain on loan with Rovers for the rest of the season with a view to a permanent move from Charlton in the summer.

A fee has been agreed between the clubs believed to be worth more than £1m.

Asked if getting the green light to go-ahead with the deal is one of the matters he needs to discuss with Rovers owners Venky’s, Lambert said: “There’s loads. There’s absolutely loads that has to be rectified here.”