• Premier League

Anelka to make West Brom return

ESPN staff
August 28, 2013
Nicolas Anelka has opted to resume his career at the Hawthorns © Getty Images
Enlarge

West Brom have confirmed that Nicolas Anelka will return to club duty on Thursday after deciding against retirement.

Anelka, 34, was given compassionate leave by his club following the death of his agent last week, and had indicated to manager Steve Clarke that he was ready to walk away from the game.

After seeing fellow striker Matej Vydra sustain an injury in Tuesday night's 3-0 victory over Newport County, Clarke had said he was hoping to see a resolution on the Anelka situation with the transfer window closing on Monday.

The club announced on Wednesday evening that Anelka had agreed to resume his career at the Hawthorns.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Albion can confirm that Nicolas Anelka will resume first-team training tomorrow and be available for selection for Sunday's game against Swansea.

"The striker was excused from club duty for the fixtures against Everton and Newport on compassionate grounds and, having met with head coach Steve Clarke today, he will rejoin his team-mates tomorrow."

Download ESPN's new UK sport app, a fresh and powerful new way to follow your favourite UK sports news, scores and video.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
ESPN staff Close