The Hawthorns has been the home of West Brom since 1900.
The Hawthorns has been the home of West Brom since 1900.

Don Goodman sympathises with West Brom ace who may not play for club again

West Brom News Speaking to Don Goodman

West Brom News is delighted to have Don Goodman joining its team of Albion experts at the start of 2024. Goodman played for the Baggies between 1987 and 1991, scoring 60 goals in 140 league appearances to make him one of the most prolific strikers in Hawthorns history. Goodman also played for Bradford, Sunderland, Wolves, Motherwell and Walsall in his career and since hanging up his boots, he's been working in the media with Sky Sports. Now, Don has agreed to join West Brom News and we're absolutely thrilled to share his expertise on the Baggies every week.

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Don Goodman sympathises with Paddy McNair, who may have already played his last game for West Brom due to injury.

The experienced centre-back arrived at The Hawthorns from MLS side San Diego FC in the summer on a short-term loan that runs through until 31 December.

However, McNair sustained a hamstring injury in the 0-0 draw with Cardiff City on 26 October and is out for an undisclosed period of time.

While it is unlikely he will return in time to play again for Albion, Goodman expects McNair to do everything in his power to change that.

"From previous experience I can tell you there's nothing worse than when you're injured," he told West Brom News. "It can be a lonely place, especially if it's an injury that keeps you out for months.

"It's not easy turning up at the training ground and seeing your team-mates turn up while you go to the physio room. It's not the first lay-off McNair has had and he'll be focused on recovering as quickly as possible.

"Sometimes the prognosis can be a little off - I was ruled out for a year during my playing days and was back within six months - so it's possible he can make his way back quicker than expected. He'll do everything in his power to make a quick return to the side."

Paddy McNair's minimal impact for West Brom

McNair was effectively brought in to act as short-term cover at the back for West Brom, but he has made just three appearances since joining four months ago - a number that is now unlikely to increase.

Just two of those outings have been in the Championship, totalling 94 minutes on the field after sustaining his injury early on against Cardiff.

West Brom manager Carlos Corberan
West Brom manager Carlos Corberan

It is deeply unfortunate for McNair, especially when considering the defensive headache Carlos Corberan has right now.

With McNair returning Stateside at the end of next month, it now seems likely a replacement will be brought in once the January window opens for business.

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