Baggies Reclaim Clement

Last updated : 27 March 2008 By Andy Beill
Albion boss Tony Mowbray has exercised the clause to recall the player after the first 28 days of the loan spell.

The two clubs had originally agreed a 3-month loan deal, and went to some length to ensure that the 29-year-old's spell would include the play-offs, should City finish in the top 6.

However, with City climbing from 8th to 3rd and overtaking the Baggies, Mowbray has acted to hinder the team's climb up the leagues. Phil Brown has also revealed that Clement failed medicals at other clubs prior to being given a chance by the Tigers, and the five appearances he made in black and amber has gone some way to proving his fitness.

Brown was hoping to bring in a replacement, and was also in the hunt for a striker on loan, but has failed to complete any deals ahead of today's 5pm transfer deadline.

Centre back Wayne Brown is rated at 50/50 to be fit for Saturday's game with Watford. Simon Walton is the only other option to replace Clement at the back.

Jay-Jay Okocha is still out through injury, as is Nick Barmby, but Craig Fagan could return.