By Tim Hodges from the Amex Press Briefing
Gus Poyet was reluctant to talk about Albion’s injury status this morning, although I suspect this may be good news for key players coming back rather than a sign of any new problems.
Poyet said for him Southampton were more important than Palace as the Saints were flying high at the top of the league and were the current team to beat – a little like the Albion were last season.
The Albion boss suggested that assistant manager Mauricio Taricco could well be one of his first choice full backs if he stays fit, saying that Tanno has such a presence on influence on the pitch.
Poyet also appears delighted that Will Buckley is back from injury and available to the squad.
Earlier Will Buckley told me how eager he was to build on his first-day heroics and have a run in the team. He also explained how Poyet builds his preferred starting 11 up from midweek onwards.
Liam Bridcutt discussed with me the chances of him joining Craig Mackail-Smith in the Scotland squad courtesy of his late Scots grandfather and the midfielder is enjoying the step up he has made to Championship level, particularly playing against current and ex internationals week in week out.
