West Brom defender Semi Ajayi ruled out of Rotherham match, while duo who trained still a doubt
West Brom defender Semi Ajayi will be sidelined for up to 10 days with a shoulder injury, while Kyle Bartley and Grady Diangana could still be a doubt for this weekend’s clash against Rotherham United despite training, according to Lewis Cox.
After Monday night’s (12 December) 2-1 victory over Sunderland, the Baggies will look to make it five wins on the bounce in the Championship as they host the Millers at The Hawthorns on Saturday (17 December).
Bartley and Diangana – who both missed West Brom’s first game back after the World Cup break – have been training with the first team this week, but could still miss out, according to Express and Star journalist Lewis Cox.
He tweeted: “Kyle Bartley trained today West Brom after thigh concern, staff waiting to see how he responds tomorrow. Grady Diangana did likewise following illness.
“Not so good on Semi Ajayi (shoulder) front, Carlos Corberan estimates 7-10 days lay-off there.”
Big boost if fit
The potential return of Bartley and Diangana will come as a huge boost to Corberan and provide yet another selection dilemma for the Spaniard after a quite remarkable turnaround in recent weeks.
Bartley’s return at the heart of the defence could, in turn, shift Erik Pieters to left-back after Conor Townsend endured a tough night at The Stadium of Light – giving away the penalty which Amad Diallo subsequently converted.
The Baggies stalwart will likely provide the side with a calm and experienced head at the back, while Diangana will add yet another string to West Brom’s bow in attacking departments.
It would be harsh for Corberan to drop any of his attackers after the brilliant win against Sunderland, but the Englishman could force his way into the team for either Jed Wallace or Matt Phillips.
Meanwhile, a maximum 10-day layoff for Semi Ajayi should mean the Nigerian returns for the Baggies’ Boxing Day clash against Bristol City.
In other West Brom news, pundit Kevin Campbell is delighted by Kyle Bartley’s contract extension at the club.