Mowbray: Stars staying put

West Brom manager Tony Mowbray has insisted none of his front-line players will be leaving the club during the January transfer window after rejecting Bolton’s £3m bid for midfielder James Morrison.

Mowbray is adamant Bolton’s interest in the Scotland international is “dead as far as myself and James are concerned” ahead of Saturday’s home FA Cup tie with Peterborough.

The former Hibernian boss is unhappy that Bolton’s bid became public knowledge, but is confident Morrison will not be distracted.

And Mowbray is looking to bring in further loan signings during the coming month after securing the services of Arsenal striker Jay Simpson.

Morrison has been one of the Baggies’ most consistent performers during the first half of the campaign, although they are still occupying bottom spot in the Barclays Premier League.

Mowbray said: “Will any of my better players be leaving in January? I don’t think so. I don’t think we are in a position to sell anyone at the moment.

“It is always a positive when other teams want your players. It shows they are doing something well."

Simpson is one of Arsenal’s most exciting young prospects and the 20-year-old will go to straight into the squad for the cup meeting with Darren Ferguson’s side.

Mowbray is hoping Simpson will develop as a player during his spell with Albion so he can return to the Emirates Stadium as a player able to make his mark for the Gunners in their bid to challenge for Premier League and Champions League glory.

Morrison could be rested against Posh with a tight groin as a precaution, but Gianni Zuiverloon is definitely out with a knee problem. Fellow defender Paul Robinson will return after suspension.