Gayle to bolster West Brom frontline after serving suspension

Posted Thursday, February 21, 2019 by PA

West Brom have Dwight Gayle back in contention for Saturday’s televised clash with Championship title rivals Sheffield United.

The striker has served his two-match suspension after being punished by the Football Association for successful deception of a match official. He is expected to return to the starting line up, most likely replacing Jefferson Montero.

With one eye on the game against the Blades, who are just one point in front of fourth-placed West Brom, Baggies boss Darren Moore rested midfielders Gareth Barry and Rekeem Harper for Tuesday’s 3-2 win at QPR.

Both players, who came on as substitutes, are likely to start the match at The Hawthorns.

Chris Basham is available again after suspension for Sheffield United.

The versatile 30-year-old has completed a two-match ban for 10 yellow cards and could be recalled to the starting line-up.

Defenders Jack O’Connell and George Baldock have been undergoing treatment for hamstring and calf injuries respectively, although Blades boss Chris Wilder is hopeful both will be included in his matchday squad.

Top scorer Billy Sharp could also be brought back into the team after the 22-goal striker was rested last weekend, with Wilder’s side winning 4-0 at home to Reading.