West Brom boss Steve Bruce has confirmed that Daryl Dike will not join up with the USA this summer as he focuses on returning fully fit for pre-season.

The striker was a £7m signing for Albion in the January window but he suffered an injury shortly after signing which has ended his campaign shortly.

Despite the setback at club level, it had been thought Dike could return for the national team who have fixtures scheduled at the start of June.

However, speaking to The Athletic, Bruce explained how productive talks have been held with USA boss Gregg Berhalter, with Dike to skip international duty in order to focus on starting pre-season early to get fit for next season.

"I spoke to Gregg this week. They have been very very sensible and they understand the situation. Daryl will not be involved in the internationals. There's another one in September so that is what he is focusing on.

"It's good for Daryl too, so it's good to clear that up. He can concentrate on what we have put in place to make sure he has a really good summer before he comes back for pre-season. We have waited this long so we have got to make sure he is right."

The verdict

This seems like a very sensible approach from all concerned as Dike doesn't need to take any risks after what has been a hugely frustrating few months for him.

Of course, USA would want him fit and firing but they will also recognise in the bigger picture that it's all about the World Cup this year, so it's about managing him carefully.

It appears a smart solution has been found and all at The Hawthorns will be excited to see what Dike can do in the past.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.