Boss provides latest on Long and Brunt
STEVE Clarke admits Shane Long is now a major doubt to face Swansea on Saturday (ko 3pm) after aggravating the ankle injury he battled through the Chelsea game with last weekend.But the Hawthorns boss revealed Chris Brunt will be available after the Baggies skipper overcame the ankle problem that saw him miss the trip to Stamford Bridge.
And Steven Reid, Claudio Yacob and Jonas Olsson have all shaken off the minor knocks they suffered against Rafa Benitez’ Blues.
“Chris is back and looking good,” said Clarke.
“The unfortunate thing for us is that Shane Long, who played last week with a bad ankle, has aggravated his ankle through the weekend.
“He trained Monday and Tuesday but unfortunately didn’t train today.
“He is doubtful for tomorrow - and the weekend as well.
“That’s a bit of a loss for us.
“Although, I’m ever the optimist and I haven’t ruled him out of the weekend yet.
“I’m sure Ireland will pick him in the squad and hopefully he’ll be involved for us at Stoke next weekend.”
The Albion chief will also be able to call on the services of on-loan Romelu Lukaku again after he was ineligible to play against his parent club, Chelsea.
While Goran Popov adds to Clarke’s options after completing a three-match ban for his sending off against Tottenham.
“It’s good to have Romelu back,” he added.
“He’s been in a really good run of form and hopefully he can pick up where he left off.”