Club News

Mel hails leader Reid as he adds to full-back headaches

Right-back a doubt for Arsenal trip

PEPE Mel has hailed leader Steven Reid for setting the tone in yesterday’s 1-0 win over West Ham – but revealed he is a doubt for next Sunday’s trip to Arsenal (ko 1.30pm).

The Baggies right-back limped off seconds before half-time after suffering a groin injury in a challenge with Matt Jarvis.

It further adds to Pepe Mel’s full-back headaches, with Liam Ridgwell (knee) missing the Hammers clash and already ruled out of the Emirates Stadium encounter.

And it means the Albion chief may be forced to play Chris Brunt at left-back against the Gunners, after seeing the Baggies skipper slot in there during the second half against Sam Allardyce’s men.

Mel said: “Firstly, Steven Reid showed yesterday he is a great professional and that he’s really important for the group.

“He’s really the one who sets an example for us to continue working.

“I hope he once again becomes available because otherwise against Arsenal we’ll only have Billy Jones and Brunt to play in the full-back positions.”