Hal Robson-Kanu's three-game ban upheld and Jake Livermore a doubt for play-offs

Livermore is unlikely to play in the upcoming semi-final matches with a bruised foot that has kept him out of the last four games.

Robson-Kanu's three-game ban for a straight red card picked up at Derby will be enforced by the FA after the Baggies tried to get the ban reduced.

"It’s something we looked into and it’s apparent that Hal is going to miss those three games which will be a big loss for us," said Shan. "He’s been a key player for us, whether he’s come off the bench or not, so it’s going to be a big miss for us."

It depletes Shan's options up front to just two people, Dwight Gayle and Jay Rodriguez, although he's been working this week on a contingency plan if either of those two are injured.

"With him being ruled out we’ve been looking at ways and means to get different personnel into that position and that key area," added Shan. "Maybe these people do things differently to him."

Livermore has missed the last four games with a foot problem that could keep him out of the games with Villa.

Fellow midfielder Gareth Barry is already out for the rest of the season after requiring knee surgery. Apart from that, Shan has a clean bill of a health to pick from.

"Jake’s got bruising on his foot, he’s currently with the medical team," said Shan. "I get an update each day.

"He’s been out on the grass, he’s not been isolated in the gym. It’s just about making sure we bring Jake back in at the appropriate time. They will be managing him accordingly.

"We’ll keep getting updates day by day. Maybe I’ll have a clearer message in the morning. He’s not been ruled out yet.

"Everybody else is fit and raring to go and training with intensity. We’re looking good in that aspect. The group have performed well over the last two days. That adds to that headache."