Teammate Backs Victor Anichebe To Start Against Stoke City

Victor Anichebe has the backing of West Brom teammate Gareth McAuley to make his second start of the season against Stoke City though the Nigeria national - teamer is battling to be fit for the tie at The Hawthorns on Saturday.

The 27 - year - old put up one of his best displays in a West Brom jersey in the 1 - 0 victory over Newcastle United on Monday night , with the Baggies faithful giving him a standing ovation when he was substituted two minutes from time.

“He was fantastic. We hope his hamstring injury isn’t too bad, we could use him. We’ve got a number of options up front and, obviously, it’s been difficult for him to come in, ” McAuley was quoted as saying by Express & Star.

“But with (Salomon) Rondon being suspended and the two games in 48 hours, the gaffer’s freshened it up with Victor and what a performance he’s put in.

“He’s a little bit sore, so the medical people will look at that hopefully. There’s a game just around the corner so, hopefully, we can wheel him out again.”

Anichebe, who starred for the Dream Team at the 2008 Olympic Games, has netted 9 goals for the Baggies since he joined the club from Everton in 2013.

Photo Credit : wba.co.uk