WANDERERS in-form striker Jermaine Beckford is proving why he was such an important signing in the summer, according to manager Dougie Freedman.

Freedman admits he had a big decision to make to fill the boots of long-serving skipper Kevin Davies after deciding to let the fans’ favourite leave after 10 years’ service.

Beckford has rediscovered his scoring touch with four goals in the last five matches and Freedman has every confidence he can fire the Whites to another win at Watford tomorrow.

But the manager says it is not just about goals with Beckford but the example he can set for others, just like Davies used to, in the dressing room.

Freedman said: “The key to Jermaine is that he never really gets down. He has the good trait of always being positive and that’s a big reason why I brought him to the club.

“I had to bring in a forward to replace Kevin Davies and there was a lot of pressure there because Kevin was a big player for many years.

“It wasn’t a nice decision at the time but I just felt I needed someone to get us more goals.

“Jermaine brings that and a similar influence on the team.

“I am hoping his confidence will rub off onto the younger players.

“Jermaine has an inner belief he will score goals and he is now showing that every week.”