Only Thorne will be considered for loan move
STEVE Clarke says he currently has no intention of sending any of his first-team squad out on loan, insisting: “They are Premier League players.”
The only exception is George Thorne – but not until the 20-year-old midfielder is deemed fit enough, as he continues his comeback from anterior knee ligament damage.
The Baggies boss admits he has a difficult task on his hands to keep all his troops happy – but believes the fierce competition for places in all areas of his squad is bringing the best out of them.
“If the team is playing well and picking up points then it's difficult for the boys not involved but they have to accept that if we're playing well then they need to wait for their chance,” said Clarke.
“It's a long season and there will be many chances for the players over the season.
“No-one is going on loan.
“They are all Premier League players, who will want to play at this level.
“They will want to play here for the Albion - they show me that every day and I don't expect anyone else to want to go out on loan.
“George is different, he's a young boy still making his way in the game and he needs matches to get back to full fitness.
“There is a difference between him and Zoltan [Gera].
“Zoltan is a hardened professional of 34.
“He knows what he has to do to get back in the team but George is younger, not so hardened, and at his age he needs games.
“Zoltan has about 500 games behind him - he doesn't need games.
“The first thing for Zoltan is to get fit so he can train day in, day out.
“Eventually with the qualities he's got that will lead to selection, either in the XI or the 18, and a chance to play out on the pitch and show everyone he can play at the highest level again - and I'm sure he can do it.”