Keane is poised for surprise return

STRIKER Robbie Keane could be set for a surprise comeback at West Brom tonight, alongside Tottenham’s newest signings Michael Carrick and Noe Paramot.

Keane was stretchered off during a pre-season friendly with Rangers in July after damaging ligaments in his right ankle. However, the 24-year-old could be rushed back ahead of schedule as Freddie Kanoute picked up a knock during Tottenham’s win against Newcastle, leaving just Jermain Defoe as the only fit striker at the club.

Midfielder Carrick, who completed his transfer from West Ham earlier yesterday, is set to make his debut, as is right-back Pamarot, who signed from Nice on Monday.

“Robbie Keane may be in the squad,” said manager Jacques Santini.

“We will wait before naming the team and leaving London, as training will give us a better idea about fitness levels. Robbie has been training at 90%. He has been injured for four or five weeks and we don’t know whether he’s ready.

“I will talk with the doctors and the medical staff before we decide if he’s okay. Robbie is a very important player for my young team and I hope he will be ready - it will be great news for the team.”

The former France boss, who watched West Brom’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday, believes his side face a fight to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.

Santini picked out former Arsenal star Kanu and his strike partner Geoff Horsfield as the men capable of doing the damage for West Brom tonight.

“They played a good game against Aston Villa and showed what a strong team they are. I thought Kanu and Horsfield were impressive. I also think Neil Clement has a very good left foot.

“I’ve told my players that each game we play this season will be difficult. They’re a good team but I’m hoping for a positive result.”

Hungary midfielder Zoltan Gera is pushing to make his first start for West Brom. Gera, a £1.5m capture from Ferencvaros, sparkled as a substitute during the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa.

Albion will again be without suspended midfielder Jason Koumas, striker Rob Hulse (stomach strain) and central defender Larus Sigurdsson, recovering from a knee injury.