Express & Star

Saido Berahino left out because of 'disruptive' impact of transfer bid

West Brom boss Tony Pulis claims he left Saido Berahino out of the home defeat to Chelsea because of the "disruptive" impact of Tottenham's failed transfer bid.

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Pulis repeated his criticism of the transfer window overlapping the start of the season and hinted Berahino was not in the right state of mind to play.

The 22-year-old was the subject of a £15m offer from Spurs this week and was omitted from the 18-man matchday squad this afternoon.

"Why are we talking about Saido today?" said Pulis.

"We're talking about Saido because of the transfer window.

"The transfer window is absolutely ridiculous.

"For it to be going through at the start of the season I find just ridiculous.

"Everybody should be talking about the game and this wouldn't be an issue or a problem.

"Saido's a great lad and it happens where it can be disruptive and it has been disruptive.

"I had a good chat with him yesterday.

"He's fine, but it's the transfer window that causes the problem."

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