And Clarke explains key duo's absence at Old Trafford
STEVE Clarke has revealed Shane Long and James Morrison missed yesterday’s sensational 2-1 win at Manchester United due to minor knocks.
Nicolas Anelka also failed to shake off the niggle he picked up in last weekend’s 3-0 win over Southampton in time for the Old Trafford trip.
And it made the victory over the Red Devils all the more remarkable, with several other key players also currently sidelined.
Chris Brunt missed his third successive game due to a groin problem, while Ben Foster (foot), Matej Vydra (hamstring), Zoltan Gera and George Thorne (both knee) continue their recoveries from injury.
And Scott Sinclair added to the list when he was forced off after just 13 minutes against the champions due to a hamstring injury.