By Tim Hodges
The Albion have signed Newcastle’s veteran keeper Steve Harper on a month’s loan and, subject to clearance from the Football League, he is expected to start against West Ham United tonight (kick-off 7.45pm at The Amex).
Gonzolo Jara Reyes, another loanee, is also expected to start in either defence or midfield.
Albion are likely to be without midfield maestro Vicente Rodriguez, who is struggling with a thigh injury.
West Ham lost their last match away at current leaders Southampton last Tuesday (18 October) and boss Sam Allardyce may choose to start with either Mark Noble or Jack Collison. However, neither team line-up is expected to be announced before 6.45pm.
The Albion can go fourth if they win, and Gus Poyet must decide if it’s to be Will Hoskins or Ashley Barnes up front with Craig Mackail-Smith, and if Will Buckley will get a start in the eleven.
Full match report here from 11pm.
