Head coach says club giving full support to midfielder
STEVE Clarke insists Graham Dorrans has a big part to play at The Hawthorns this season as the midfielder continues to receive the club’s full support off the field.
The 25-year-old missed Saturday’s 3-0 victory over Liverpool after his daughter Ava fell seriously ill two weeks ago.
Clarke said: “Graham's been dropping in and out of training depending on hospital appointments, or seeing doctors, and spending the appropriate amount of time with his family.
“Until his daughter gets out of hospital and gets home, then that will remain the situation.”
Clarke also revealed he is a fully-paid-up member of the Dorrans fan club, revealing his former club West Ham tried to sign the ex-Livingston player while he was assistant coach to Gianfranco Zola.
“I knew of Graham when I was at West Ham,” added Clarke.
“We tried to sign him. He was a player West Ham chased vigorously but Albion wouldn’t sell him and it didn't happen.
“Graham’s had a really good pre-season in terms of his football. He will quickly get back up to speed.”