Clarke dismisses selling stars

West Brom manager Steve Clarke has ruled out the possibility of anyone leaving the Hawthorns in January.

Several players have caught the eye of other clubs thanks to Albion’s remarkable early season form, which sees the Baggies occupying fifth place in the Premier League.

Despite the potential profit Albion could make on their stars, Clarke insists the Black Country outfit will not be letting anyone go – especially with Peter Odemwingie and Youssouf Mulumbu departing in January for African Cup of Nations’ duty.

“I’ve not got any thoughts on January,” the Scot told reporters.

“As far as I’m concerned, it will take care of itself.

“I’m happy with what I’ve got. I’ll have that squad in January. I might lose one or two to the African Nations’ Cup but I’m comfortable with what I have here to cover it.

“I don’t think anyone is going to be leaving this club in January.”

Clarke also revealed he has had no contact with Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez over Romelu Lukaku’s loan move from the Blues.

The Champions League holders could activate a clause during the transfer window recalling Lukaku to Stamford Bridge, but Clarke is confident of keeping the Belgian at the Hawthorns.

“I’ve only seen what Mr Benitez has said in the papers myself,” Clarke said.

“It does intimate that he won’t be called back but I’ve not heard anything from them.”