And Clarke says there will be no rash decisions on players coming to end of contracts
STEVE Clarke has provided a mixed injury bulletin ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Newcastle (ko 3pm).Peter Odemwingie remains a doubt due to a niggling problem behind his knee that forced him to sit out the Arsenal game ten days ago.
Liam Ridgewell has concerns over his groin but is expected to be fit to face the Magpies, while Isaiah Brown is likely to miss out due to injury.
“Peter is progressing,” said Clarke.
“He’s got a problem behind his knee.
“Liam Ridgewell picked up a little bit of a knock in training.
“He felt a tightness in his groin the other day so we took him out but we’re still hopeful for the weekend.
“Izzy Brown will struggle for the weekend, which is a shame for him.”
The Baggies boss also explained Steven Reid is fit again after his groin injury but did not make the bench against the Gunners as he did not want three defenders among his substitutes.
Clarke has stressed any decisions on players whose contracts finish at the end of the season will not be based on the final six games alone.
“Nobody’s future will be decided on the final six games,” added the Albion chief.
“Futures will be decided on what players have done for the club previously and how we see the club going forward.”