Share

Anelka back for Baggies

London - Nicolas Anelka has returned to West Bromwich Albion's starting line-up for Sunday's Premier League encounter with Swansea City after being granted compassionate leave due to a personal bereavement.

The French striker missed last weekend's goalless draw at Everton following the death of his friend and agent, Eric Manasse.

It prompted media reports that he was contemplating retirement, but he subsequently returned to training and was named in manager Steve Clarke's starting XI for Sunday's game at the Hawthorns.

Speaking earlier in the week, Clarke said he had no concerns about the 34-year-old's mental state.

"He is good. He explained to me the circumstances around his state of mind last week, and they were all good reasons, and now he is fine," Clarke said.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
64% - 472 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
36% - 262 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE