There was a lot of speculation that West Brom striker Nicolas Anelka could retire from the sport following the death of his agent recently. The striker left the club after just under two months of joining them on a free transfer this summer. Manager Steve Clarke confirmed that the club had decided to give Anelka compassionate leave, but he was not sure whether the striker will continue in his career. The 34-year-old has had a stellar career where he has represented some of the top clubs in the world like Real Madrid and Chelsea.
He has also won numerous trophies during his career including the Champions league. Clarke has now confirmed that the striker has returned to first team. Anelka missed the last two matches for West Brom against Everton in the league and Newport County in the Capital One cup. He is in line for selection for the Premier league match against Swansea according to Clarke. Initially, there was a lot of displeasure towards Anelka for leaving the club in acrimonious circumstances, but he revealed on his Facebook page about the saddening death of his agent.
Anelka made his debut for West Brom in the opening day defeat against Southampton. He has been one of the best players for the club in pre-season.
“Having met with head coach Steve Clarke today, he will rejoin his team-mates tomorrow. Anelka will resume first-team training tomorrow [Thursday] and be available for selection for Sunday’s game against Swansea,” said a statement on the club’s official website. Clarke, though, has admitted that Anelka did say about quitting the sport altogether. He signed a one-year contract with West Brom to seal his return to the Premier league. He has won the Premier league title with Chelsea and Arsenal in the past. He has also played for Spanish giants Real Madrid as well.