Robson: "I feel Ellington and Phillips...are looking really sharp at the moment."

BRYAN Robson is considering starting Kevin Phillips and Nathan Ellington against Southend on Saturday (ko 3pm).

But he again looks set to be without Steve Watson as the utility ace continues to struggle with the thigh injury that has seen him miss the last two games.

The Baggies boss has now declared Ellington fully fit after his hamstring troubles.

And with John Hartson battling with a niggling ankle problem, he could partner the former Wigan hitman with new signing Phillips from the start for the first time against United.

"Ellington and Hartson have had niggling injuries which have taken just a percentage off their game," said Robson.

"John's been struggling with an ankle injury which has taken a little bit of an edge off his performance.

"The pleasing thing is that Ellington is 100 per cent fit for the first time since the first game of the season.

"I feel Ellington and Phillips, who has only played two 90-minute games this season, are looking really sharp at the moment and are both more or less 100 per cent fit now.

"I feel there are goals to come from them.

"I'll look at them in training tomorrow and then I'll make my decision on who to play."

The Albion chief is now hoping Watson will be available to face Cheltenham in the Carling Cup second round on Tuesday (ko 7.45pm).

"Watto is still feeling his thigh," he added.

"He probably won't be ready for Saturday but I'm looking for him to be involved again next week."