Club News

Vydra a doubt for Swans visit

Clarke also looking to boost goalkeeping options

STEVE Clarke has confirmed Matej Vydra is a doubt for Sunday’s Barclays Premier League home clash with Swansea (ko 1.30pm) after the striker bowed out of Albion’s 3-0 triumph over Newport prematurely.

The Czech Republic international, who made his full Albion debut this evening, limped from the field with a tight hamstring in the dying moments of the first half.

But the Baggies chief refused to completely rule Vydra out of the Swans clash in five days’ time. 

“Matej was running back after Goran Popov had given the ball away in a dangerous position,” said Clarke.

“He was doing his job for the team and he just felt his hamstring tighten up.

“Rather than risk him, we took him off as a precaution.

“The game was at a stage where we could afford to do that as we were 3-0 up."

Clarke added: “Matej’s doubtful for Sunday.

“If you come off with a tight hamstring in a midweek match before the weekend you are always doubtful.

“But today is Tuesday and we don’t play until Sunday so we have more time than normal to get him right.”

Clarke also confirmed the club are looking to bring in another goalkeeper after Ben Foster was ruled out for up to 12 weeks with a foot injury suffered at Everton on Saturday. 

The head coach needs cover for Boaz Myhill and Luke Daniels, who made his full Albion debut against Newport.

“With Ben out for up to 12 weeks it’s important I have experienced cover,” added Clarke.

“Boaz is fit but he was only on the bench tonight because he’s only trained for one day.

“Luke came in under pressure at the weekend and I thought he deserved his chance tonight.

“He made a fantastic save when the game was close.

“I thought he was good and looked assured.

“I’ve got those two keepers and I have no problem running with them, but obviously I need cover. 

“The next one after that is Jack Rose, who is a really promising keeper, but he’s not ready at this moment in time.”