Nicolas Anelka still has West Brom role, says Keith Downing

Downing says the Frenchman will figure over Christmas despite being left out of the squad to face Hull at The Hawthorns on Saturday. And with chairman Jeremy Peace closing in on Steve Clarke's long-term successor, the man who is holding the reins insists Anelka is still fired up to be a success for Albion.

The 34-year-old has failed to impress since his high-profile summer move from Juventus and has not figured since October due to illness, injury and Saturday's decision by Downing to leave him out.

But the caretaker boss said: "Nicolas has a great talent. He trains every day and the misconception of Nicolas is that he's a quiet man. People class him as maybe a little bit moody but he's a real deep thinking man.

"He had a cracking pre-season. He was one of our top players and it is just over the last couple weeks he has not been involved.

"But I have spoken to Nico twice now and he is very keen and wants to do well for the club. I still think he has got a major part to play here."

Albion hope to appoint a permanent boss by the end of the week with Spaniard Pepe Mel still firmly in the frame. And Downing believes the new head coach will want Anelka in his plans.

"It'll obviously depend on the new guy who comes in, but for me as a stand-in he has been nothing but supportive and wants to help the group.

"He's keen to help, whatever is required and needed. We have to look after him and manage him. I still think there's a part to play.

"How can you not keep him involved? He's a talent. He hasn't played any development games but he's kept fit and trained, he's been on it every day, he's never missed training.

"He's part of the squad over Christmas."