West Brom back QPR targets to stun suitors
West Brom today backed Queens Park Rangers targets Jonas Olsson and Peter Odemwingie to shine against their suitors in their FA Cup third round replay at the Hawthorns.
The Baggies will take on Harry Redknapp's side for a place in round four tonight against the backdrop of their failed bids for defender Olsson and striker Odemwingie.
But assistant head coach Kevin Keen is adamant the pair will perform, despite the potential distraction of QPR's continued interest.
He said: "This is what happens in football. The supporters might not be happy with QPR but I'm sure they will give the team their full support, whatever happens.
"Peter and Jonas are two experienced players who have been here a long time and they will go out and do their best for West Brom.
"I'm sure the fans will support them just as strongly. The two bids have been turned down and Peter and Jonas are more than happy to be at a club in the top half of the Premier League.
"We certainly don't want to get rid of them. Peter is a fantastic footballer, a really good player for West Bromwich Albion.
"I hope he will be for the rest of the season and I'm sure he will be."
Odemwingie is back in the Baggies squad after a calf injury, while Olsson is looking to continue the comeback from a groin problem that began with a start in Saturday's defeat at Reading.
Steven Reid is also available tonight after a shin injury and the Baggies are hoping for a clean bill of health – apart from long-term absentee Zoltan Gera – by the time they host Villa in Saturday's Premier League derby.
