• Premier League

Ben Foster heading for second groin operation

Ben Foster has been prone to the odd mistake this season © Getty Images

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West Brom boss Steve Clarke has confirmed Ben Foster may need further surgery to cure a long-standing groin injury, with the goalkeeper potentially set for a second operation in Germany this week.

Foster, 29, had surgery on the opposite side of his groin earlier this month, which forced him to miss three Premier League games, and now he is facing another spell of between ten days and two weeks on the sidelines.

Clarke is in consultation with the club's medical staff, but the indications point to more surgery after the goalkeeper complained about further pain on the opposite side of his groin, which has ruled him out of the last two games.

Boaz Myhill will continue to deputise for Wednesday's trip to face Swansea and Clarke said: "It is possible that Ben could need further surgery. If that is the case, it will be the same timescale as before, that it will be seven to 10 days.

"I have not spoken to Ben. He is with the medical staff. He does not need me to hold his hand and tell him I love him.

"He knows how important a player he is to us, but I've every confidence in Boaz. His attitude was excellent when he was out of the side and he has grabbed his chance with both hands."

Clarke will leave a decision on central defender Jonas Olsson, who suffered a calf injury against Sunderland at the weekend, until the last possible moment before finalising his team plans, but will not take any unnecessary risks with the Sweden international.

"He is the sort of guy who will play through the pain," Clarke said. "Jonas is one of the few players who has played every game this season but I want to ensure he is available long term."

The Baggies boss, former No. 2 to Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, revealed the Portuguese sent him a text message of support ahead of the victory at the Stadium Of Light, adding: "Jose said some good things in the text although what they were will remain in private."

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