Mixed news on the injury front

Last updated : 26 November 2002 By Martyn Elliott

No repeat on Wednesday
The full back was taken ill on Sunday and has been told by the club doctor that he has no chance of facing Inter on Wednesday, although Sir Bobby will give it until the final possible minute before ruling him out.

Nobby Solano had to have an x-ray on a foot injury after the game with Manchester United, but has been told that the damage is just severe bruising and he shouldn’t be ruled out tomorrow.

Craig Bellamy is also a doubt after completing 90 minutes at Old Trafford, but he has trained today and Sir Bobby will hold discussions with medical staff before making a decision about the Welshman’s participation.

Laurent Robert has declared himself fit and is prepared to wear a protective mask, but Sir Bobby is believed to be reluctant to risk the Frenchman.

One piece of good news though is that Hugo Viana is definitely available after recovering from his knee injury and he looks certain to start on the left of midfield.