Source: FOOTYMAD
Hodgson's worry over key midfielders
Dorrans out for Arsenal with Mulumbu struggling Graham Dorrans has been ruled out of Albion’s game against Arsenal on Saturday (KO 3pm) with Youssouf Mulumbu also a major doubt. Dorrans injured his ankle in training prior to the Birmingham City victory in which Mulumbu picked up a muscular injury. Baggies boss Roy Hogdson says he is optimistic midfield battler Mulumbu will be fit to face the Gunners, but is concerned that Dorrans has made no progress in his return from injury. "With Mulumbu we have a concern,” he said. “He has suffered two muscle injuries, one after the other. "We have concerns about him but hope he will train later this week and be fit to play against Arsenal." "It's far too early to say how bad Dorrans is. "It would be wrong to fear-monger. "I thought his ankle looked okay before I went away, the swelling had gone down but obviously that was me being too optimistic because he is still having problems. "We are concerned as he still hasn't been able to put any weight on it. "The medical staff are looking at that very carefully. "We were hoping for a quick fix but Mark [Gillett] yesterday raised fears it might be a longer job. "We should know later this week. "We hope it won't come to that but it is a concern. "We were thinking Liverpool at the earliest and we are still thinking that. "He's the one who is out and won't take any part in the Arsenal game. "Our medical people will keep an eye on him and if there is no improvement later this week we will scan it again." Who should Hodgson pick if both Dorrans and Mulumbu are ruled out? Have your say on Baggies Banter here.
