Bertrand doubtful for West Brom game

David Cuffley Defender Ryan Bertrand is a doubtful starter for Norwich City's crucial home match against Championship leaders West Bromwich Albion at Carrow Road tomorrow.

David Cuffley

Defender Ryan Bertrand is a doubtful starter for Norwich City's crucial home match against Championship leaders West Bromwich Albion at Carrow Road tomorrow.

The 18-year-old left-back did not complete 90 minutes in last Sunday's 2-1 defeat at Ipswich and is struggling with a hamstring injury.

“He is a doubt. We'll just see how he trains this morning. If I don't think he can last the game I won't risk him because he's done so well,” said manager Glenn Roeder.

“He's hurt his hamstring during the game at Ipswich. It's not serious by the very fact that he's got a chance of playing tomorrow, but if he didn't play tomorrow he'd definitely be OK for the following week.”

Bertrand has made 18 first team appearances since arriving on loan from Chelsea in January.

“He's had a successful spell here. I like him a lot both as a person and as a player - he's talented,” said Roeder.

Another of City's loan contingent, Mo Camara, stands by to replace Bertrand. Camara played the last 18 minutes at Portman Road but has not started a game since the 1-0 home defeat by Stoke on March 11.

“Mo didn't let us down at all and he's back in contention if Ryan doesn't make it, along with one or two others,” said Roeder.

Skipper Mark Fotheringham is fit to return after missing the derby defeat with a neck injury, while winger Luke Chadwick is in contention for a recall.

“Chaddy played in a game against Cambridge this week for about 70 minutes and did well. He'll certainly be in the squad and he's done really well.

“I can't tell you how well Chaddy's done and how highly motivated he's been to get back in time for these last three games. Whether we include him or not tomorrow we'll just have to wait and see.”