Club News

Jones undergoes operation

Downing delivers injury bulletin ahead of Southampton trip

KEITH Downing has revealed Billy Jones has undergone a minor operation on his badly cut eye and could be out for up to another fortnight.

The Baggies defender missed last weekend’s FA Cup clash with Crystal Palace after suffering the injury in an accidental collision with Ben Foster in the first-half of the New Year’s Day win over Newcastle.

But Albion will be able to call on the services of Steven Reid at right-back against Southampton tomorrow (ko 3pm).

And Youssouf Mulumbu is also available for selection after overcoming the eye problem that saw him sit out the Eagles encounter.

Goran Popov (neck) has been ruled out of the St Mary’s Stadium clash, while the game could too soon for Victor Anichebe, who has trained for the last four days following a five-game absence with a groin injury.

“We have one or two 50/50s,” said Downing.

“Billy Jones is definitely out.

“He’s had a small operation on his eye after the contact with Ben.

“It was just a repair to the retina and northing too serious.

“He’ll be back in the next week or two.

“Goran Popov is also out as he has a problem with his neck.

“Victor is in his fourth day of training; I don’t think he’s match fit yet but he’s coming on nicely.

“Youssouf’s good and has trained the last couple of days, and Reidy is fit.”