WEST BROM’S SHANE Long could yet be fit for Ireland’s upcoming friendly with Greece.
The striker, who was not included in Giovanni Trapattoni’s preliminary squad, could be fit for Monday’s clash with Southampton, according to the official West Brom website.
Baggies boss Steve Clarke told the website:
“For us, we’re doing as we have done with Shane over the last couple of weeks.
“We’re managing him between games and trying to get him fit for Monday night.
“He joined in training today and fingers crossed he’ll be okay for Monday.
“Ireland haven’t picked him but I’m sure if he plays on Monday they can change their squad.
“I think we’ve managed Shane really well and it hasn’t affected his performances in anyway.
“That’s what we’ll try and do in the future.”
He explained that Long would be largely unaffected by the niggling injury, provided the correct treatment methods were implemented.
“It’s one, if you manage it properly, he’ll continue to play at the level he’s been at all season.“The Ireland game is not until the middle of November and we’ve got two games before that I have to think about.”
Clarke added that he would in no way inclined to dissuade the striker from joining up with the Irish set-up, saying he would be “delighted” for Long should he ultimately be included in the squad.
