Gera in line to face Norwich City for West Brom
Zoltan Gera could make his second debut for West Bromwich Albion at Carrow Road on Sunday – but from the substitutes’ bench.
Albion manager Roy Hodgson took the Hungary international back to The Hawthorns on a free transfer during the summer after his contract expired at Fulham.
However, 32-year-old Gera, who Hodgson signed for the Londoners from Albion in 2008, has not featured for the club since his return following summer surgery on a foot problem and a suspension.
But, following his return to training, Hodgson has now revealed that Gera is fit enough to be involved against the Canaries, but a lack of match fitness means he will start the game on the bench.
“He’s fit but he’s not match-fit because he hasn’t played a game since last season but he’s looking very good physically,” said Hodgson.
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“Of course he’s short of match practice so I wouldn’t be looking to throw him in from the start of the game unless I have to.
“He started training with us on Monday but he could be in the squad.”
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Gera scored on his last appearance for Albion at Carrow Road in a 2-1 win in 2008.
Meanwhile, Hodgson has revealed that striker Peter Odemwingie is fit to play, but it is touch-and-go whether Shane Long will recover from the calf injury he picked up on international duty with the Republic of Ireland.
Hodgson told the Birmingham Mal: “Peter is OK, I think. He has trained this week and things are looking all right.
“With Shane it’s too early to say. The medical staff are working on it – his chances are 50-50.”
