Speculation over as Long set to remain at The Hawthorns

Republic of Ireland international striker Shane Long is set to stay with West Bromwich Albion following fresh speculation over his future at The Hawthorns.

Albion’s caretaker manager Keith Downing does not expect the club to sell Long in next month’s transfer window. Tottenham are the latest club to be linked with Long who is also interesting Everton, Newcastle United and Stoke City while Hull City are expected to lodge a £6m (€7.1m) bid during the transfer window.

Long has six months plus a 12-month option left on his contract and Downing said: “What happens in the future is down to the new regime.

“But personally, I have always said that I like Shane Long. I think he is a very important part of West Bromwich Albion Football Club. For me, whoever the new manager is, I will say that to him as well.”

Albion did come close to selling Long to Hull in the summer window but pulled the plug on a £6.5m deal at the 11th hour.

Meanwhile, Long has been primed to return to action for Albion against Newcastle United tomorrow.

Long has missed the last two games against Tottenham and West Ham United with a calf strain.

Downing added: “He has missed the last two games with a calf injury. But all being well he could be considered for selection.”