International Fall Out Irritates Clarke

James Morrison is a doubt for the Liverpool game after picking up a knock whilst on duty for Scotland.

The midfielder was substituted after 27 minutes with an ankle problem, and he's being assessed by the clubs' medical staff today.

Speaking to wba.co.uk Clarke said.

'Morrison has just walked into the building and is being assessed. He rolled his ankle slightly and until the doctor's assessed him I really can't comment as to whether he'll be available at the weekend. But he came off quickly, which is good, and it's good that Scotland got him off quickly because that gives him more time to recover.'

Despite communication issues over Shane Long, Clarke also revealed that although he did miss training, he was fit for the Republic of Ireland's game - he just wasn't selected.

'I got a text from Shane saying there was a communication mix up, as far as I'm aware, Shane will be fit for the weekend.'

Steve Clarke's irritation comes mainly from the fact that Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley both played 90 minutes, when clearly neither needed to, and Olsson has picked up an injury.

'I've got other players who played 90 minutes, which is not very good, given the fact they are pre season friendlies and no one needs to play 90 minutes. The international managers have a responsibility to look after the club players. It upset me a little bit because two experienced central defenders certainly didn't need 90 minutes just before the opening of the Premier League.'

Olsson is due into the club at 4pm today where he'll be assessed properly, but Clarke does say all of the knocks and niggles picked are believed to be minor by the medical team.

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