JOHN Hartson is hoping to use the Baggies' pre-season tour of Croatia and Slovenia to stake his claim for a first-team place.

The former Celtic hotshot netted in Tuesday's 1-1 draw at newly-promoted Blue Square Premier side Histon.

And he is determined to battle his way back to fitness and impress Tony Mowbray.

"I am really pleased to be going on the tour of Croatia and Slovenia with the lads," said Hartson.

"It is great news for me because it gives me a chance to show what I can still do.

"My main aim has been to get myself fit, be a part of things and play more than I did last year.

"I was pleased with my performance against Histon.

"I scored, hit the post and had another half-chance but the ball just wouldn't come down for me.

"It was great as a striker to get off the mark.

"I know goals don't necessarily mean a lot in friendly games but Histon were very competitive.

"These non-league sides are usually really up for games.

"They put up a real fight." 

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