Anelka returns to West Brom team

Nicolas Anelka returned to West Bromwich Albion's starting line-up for Sunday's Premier League encounter with Swansea City after being granted compassionate leave due to a personal bereavement. The French striker missed last weekend's goalless draw at Everton following the death of his friend and agent, Eric Manasse. It prompted media reports that he was contemplating retirement, but he subsequently returned to training and was named in manager Steve Clarke's starting XI for Sunday's game at the Hawthorns. Speaking earlier in the week, Clarke said he had no concerns about the 34-year-old's mental state. "He is good. He explained to me the circumstances around his state of mind last week, and they were all good reasons, and now he is fine," Clarke said. Source: AFP