DG: “Albion game ideal timing for Carroll”

David Gold believes two games in four days is “perfect” for Andy Carroll as he continues his return to full match fitness at West Brom on Tuesday evening.

He said: “The lads will only be in involved in light training and I think another 90 minutes will suit him down to the ground at this stage.

“He’s getting stronger all the time and could be a real handful against the Baggies. He needs match action and this has come well for him.”

Meanwhile, manager Sam Allardyce has to make a decision on whether to restore Winston Reid to the heart of defence against Albion although he has the option of playing him in a three with James Tomkins and James Collins.

He also needs to decide whether Mauro Zarate will get a place alongside Carroll which would presumably see him replacing Matt Jarvis.