West Bromwich Albion have Bakary Sako back available after a slight setback with the winger in contention to face Aston Villa in this Friday’s derby at the Hawthorns.
Darren Moore has been able to call on Sako on only two occasions since he arrived at West Brom, with the powerful forward struggling with fitness issues.
Now, the club’s official website have confirmed that Sako is fully fit and available for selection ahead of the Villa clash.
There was slightly more concerning news on Hal Robson-Kanu, who is only rated at 50/50 to face Villa.
Robson-Kanu has started West Brom’s last four Championship fixtures, keeping nine-goal Dwight Gayle on the bench during that time.
However, he picked up a problem with his knee in the draw with Brentford earlier in the week, which has cast his availability into doubt heading into the weekend’s round of fixtures.
Moore was also able to provide an update on Kyle Bartley, who has been missing since before November’s international break.
Discussing the summer signing, Moore told West Brom’s official website: “He's back in training and following his 'rehab' programme which we are very happy with.
"But you let the experts tell you when he is ready for full contact training and he has to be right for that. I don't think he is too far away now though."
West Brom welcome Villa to the Hawthorns on Friday and will be looking to stretch a four-game unbeaten run.
Moore’s side have won three fixtures in that run, but saw their winning streak come to an end against Brentford on Monday when the Bees snatched a 1-1 draw.
The Verdict
Obviously for Moore it’s great to have a player like Sako available, as the winger will surely be ready to have a bigger impact now he’s settled into his new surroundings.
However, the other news is frustrating for the West Brom boss, as Robson-Kanu has been impressive recently and Bartley is a big presence on and off the field.
It’s a testing fixture against Villa and should make great watching for the neutrals.
Thoughts? Let us know!
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