And Clarke refuses to rule Sinclair out of derby action
STEVE Clarke has revealed Ben Foster has today taken a ‘big step’ forward in his recovery from his foot injury.
The Baggies boss also confirmed Nicolas Anelka is fit for Monday’s derby with Villa (ko 8pm) after missing the 2-2 draw at Chelsea a fortnight ago due to a groin problem, while Billy Jones (hamstring) will not be available for selection.
But Clarke refused to rule out a possible return to his matchday squad for Scott Sinclair, who is back in training following a hamstring injury.
Foster has been sidelined for almost 13 weeks after limping off in the goalless draw at Everton and Clarke is delighted with his progress.
“He’s improving – I won’t put a timescale on it but he's not too far away now,” said the Albion boss.
“But today for the first time he put his boots back on, he was out on the grass and did some easy handling.
“That’s a big step forward for Ben, which is good news for Ben and everybody.
"The only ones that didn't train with the squad today were Ben and Billy Jones.
"Nico is training well and looking forward to the game on Monday night.
"I won't rule Scott out yet - we've still got two days until the game."