Clarke Pleased With Albion Warriors

Steve Clarke has said he was proud of the way the Baggies coped with injuries during the Villa game, as key players stepped up to be counted.

After already losing Chris Brunt and Billy Jones, the head coach pointed out that Gareth McAuley battled on despite receiving a knock in the final 10 minutes, and he had praise for debutant Goran Popov, and the players who came on to shape the game.

'I think everyone at Albion knows the warriors we've got in the team. Gareth McAuley finished the game on one leg but you know it takes more than that to get him off the pitch. We were unfortunate to lose two players before half time, but we re-organised at half time and I thought we started the second half really well. Once we were in front I thought we had decent control of the game, but the second goal didn't come and ultimately we got punished for that.'

As for the walked wounded, Clarke added.

'We'll assess Brunt and Jones' injuries over the next couple of days and towards the weekend we should have a better idea in terms of recovery.'

As for our debut left back, Clarke said he was pleased with what he saw.

'I thought Goran cam in on his debut to play in a game like that and showed the qualities he's got. We had no doubts he would be able to handle the game. He's got a terrific left foot, knows the game, knows how to defend, and is a strong boy.'

With Popov looking to earn a permanent deal, he's certainly started brightly.

Quotes from wba.co.uk.

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