Anelka given time to grieve

West Brom have granted Nicolas Anelka indefinite compassionate leave following the death of his agent Eric Manasse.

Anelka, who made his Baggies’ debut in Saturday’s defeat by Southampton, spoke to the club’s sporting and technical director Richard Garlic yesterday morning after being informed of the news.

It was decided the 34-year-old former France striker should be given time off to grieve, although reports he has retired are believed to be premature at this stage.