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Albion face big decision on key player who was 'very tired' at Brentford

Joao Pedro played the full game at Brentford <i>(Image: PA)</i>
Joao Pedro played the full game at Brentford (Image: PA)

Albion will take no risks with Joao Pedro as he hopes for a glorious return to the Amex.

The Brazil forward impressed at Brentford in midweek on his comeback from injury.

He will hope to take on Arsenal today (5.30pm) in what would be a first home outing since he scored in the 4-1 win over Crystal Palace in early February.

Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi said: “He finished the (Brentford) game very tired and I don’t know if we can take a risk.

“We wouldn’t like to take a risk with him especially after two months of injury.”

Julio Enciso has been given limited minutes so far after returning from a serious knee injury.

De Zerbi said: “Julio is working hard but it is difficult to reach the top of physical condition after six months of injury.

“We have to give him much time.

“He is very young. He would like to do every game, every situation something more.

“You have to be in a smarter way if you are not of your best.”

Evan Ferguson and Adam Webster are again ruled out but Ansu Fati and Valentin Barco are expected to return to the squad.