And boss responds to speculation on Olsson and Odemwingie
STEVE Clarke has confirmed Graham Dorrans could be allowed to leave Albion this month if a ‘suitable’ deal arises – but he insisted no other players will be exiting The Hawthorns during the January transfer window.And the Baggies boss claims he already has a ready-made replacement for the Scotland midfielder in George Thorne, who he last week recalled from a loan spell at Peterborough.
Clarke revealed he had an ‘amicable’ discussion with Dorrans a fortnight ago, when the 25-year-old suggested he needed a ‘fresh challenge’.
“Graham came to see me,” said the head coach.
“He said that, not just because of what’s happened this season, but in previous seasons, he feels as if he needs a fresh challenge.
“We had an amicable discussion and came to the agreement that if something came along in January that was good for the club and Graham, we would listen to the possibility that Graham could leave.
“Should that happen, I’ve got a replacement - I brought George Thorne back.”
Clarke was also quizzed at his pre-match media conference about stories that have emerged this week regarding the futures of Jonas Olsson and Peter Odemwingie.
“It’s complete speculation about Jonas and there is no reason why I’d lose him this month,” the Albion chief added.
“January is the silly season.
“We can hang onto every single player under contract – we don’t need to sell anybody.
“It’s not unsettling for me in anyway because I know come February 1 the players I need to be here will be here.”