Express & Star

Hal Robson-Kanu set for further scans as Matt Phillips and James Morrison edge closer to a return

Hal Robson-Kanu is receiving further scans on his thigh injury but it's hoped he only picked up a muscle strain on Wednesday.

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Hal Robson-Kanu limps off. (AMA)

Robson-Kanu limped off in extra-time during the 3-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at The Hawthorns.

But head coach Darren Moore is hoping the striker isn't out for long.

“He’ll have an in-depth scan today but the ultrasound showed fluid on his thigh which suggests it’s just a strain," said Darren Moore. "We’ll gladly take that if it is.

"We feel that’s down to the volume of games. The medical team will give me more information but hopefully it’s not as bad as first feared."

Matt Phillips and James Morrison have been sidelined since January with ankle problems while Chris Brunt is also nursing a slight calf stain.

Phillips and Morrison are both edging closer to a return.

"They’re back in and around training, they’re moving really well and getting football work into them," said Moore. "Provided no reactions from both of them we hope to have them back really soon."

It was a gruelling midweek fixture that saw many of Albion's players complete 120 minutes, but Moore is expected to name a much-changed side for this weekend's trip to Stoke City.

Jay Rodriguez and Craig Dawson only played 45 minutes while Ahmed Hegazi completed the last 30 minutes of extra-time.

Sam Field and Rekeem Harper, who both played 120 minutes after starting against Middlesbrough last weekend, are the two most likely to be rested, especially with a game against Nottingham Forest looming just three days later.

“The lads are recovering," said Moore. "They seem ok, they’re in good spirits. Not just them two but the whole squad really.

"Both of them are young professionals who have performed admirably over the weeks.

"I think you’ve seen them give every ounce. We’ll assess them today and look at the recovery.

"We’ve still got 24 hours recovery time, they’re younger players who can recover quicker."