Club News

Clarke hopeful on key duo

Boss reflects on bumps and bruises picked up at Stamford Bridge

STEVE Clarke hopes to welcome back Chris Brunt and Shane Long to training later this week ahead of Saturday’s Hawthorns clash with Swansea (ko 3pm).

Skipper Brunt was ruled out of Albion’s 1-0 defeat at Chelsea with an ankle injury while Long passed a late fitness test on a similar problem to play the full 90 minutes.

“We thought Chris would train yesterday but he did some work on Monday and still felt something so fingers crossed he'll train later this week,” said Clarke. 

“He and Shane twisted their ankles.

“Shane was still feeling it a bit on Saturday.”

Clarke also revealed several players are nursing minor injuries after the Chelsea trip as the season begins to take its toll. 

“Claudio Yacob has a knock and hasn't trained but should be okay," he added.

"Steven Reid also has a knock and hasn't trained this week either but should also be okay. 

“Jonas Olsson didn't train on Monday but he trained yesterday and Youssouf Mulumbu had a migraine - but he's fine now. 

“Hopefully, everyone will be fine to train tomorrow.”