Slaven Bilic names West Brom first teamer who ‘won’t be ready’ for must-win clash v QPR
West Brom manager has confirmed that full-back Kieran Gibbs will not be ready in time to face QPR in Albion’s final game of the season in midweek.
The 30-year-old has been sidelined since the 4-2 win over Hull City earlier this month with a hamstring complaint, and will not be available to compete in the Baggies’ must-win clash against the R’s.
Gibbs has suffered a stop-start campaign, and has been limited to just 14 Championship appearances.
It would appear that he won’t add to that tally either.
Speaking in a press conference ahead of Albion’s visit by QPR, as quoted by the Birmingham Mail, Bilic said: “They [the rest of the West Brom’s squad] are all fine.
“Kieran is the only one, let’s be honest, that is still feeling a little bit tight.
“I don’t believe that disturbs QPR. He won’t be ready for selection.”
Truth be told, this isn’t too much of a surprise.
Gibbs was always going to be touch and go for the remainder of the campaign, and the matches have been coming so thick and fast that a lot of players have been put under extra physical strain.
To be fair, in his absence, Connor Townsend has done a decent enough job too.
The 27-year-old has averaged more interceptions and has won more duels per game than the former Arsenal man this term, as per Wyscout.
The continuity of having Townsend at left-back could be a good thing for the Baggies too.
This is the biggest game of their season by a mile, the one that it all boils down to, and too much chopping and changing could actually have a negative impact on the side.
In other West Brom news, Hal Robson-Kanu has sent a message to this Leeds player after Albion’s loss handed the Whites promotion.
Be sure to follow West Brom News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Baggies and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Phillips.