West Brom defender Craig Dawson ruled out for two months
Albion have been dealt a blow after defender Craig Dawson was ruled out until Christmas with a knee injury.
The 27-year-old, an ever-present for the Baggies to this point of the campaign, was forced off late in last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Southampton.
Though initial fears Dawson had suffered ligament damage proved unfounded, the former Rochdale man is expected to be sidelined for around eight weeks.
"The injury gave Craig a serious thigh muscle bleed and a torn knee capsule," explained Dr Mark Gillett, the Baggies head of performance.
"It's a serious injury but we are heartened that it's already showing an improvement and surgery is not required."
Dawson underwent several scans to determine the extent of the injury, which club medics initially feared could rule him out for a much longer period.
His absence will still create a significant headache for Albion boss Tony Pulis, who could also be without skipper Jonny Evans at the back for Saturday’s visit of Premier League leaders Manchester City.
The Northern Ireland international limped out of last weekend’s defeat at St Mary’s Stadium with a groin problem.
Albion head into Saturday’s game on a seven-game winless run in the league which has seen them slip to within two points of the relegation zone.
