Clarke tips West Brom to bounce back

Dec 1, 2012 2:00:00 AM

The Baggies' four-match winning run ended on Wednesday following a defeat to Swansea City but the Scot believes his side can return to form with a victory against Stoke

West Brom manager Steve Clarke insists his side are capable of bouncing back following their 3-1 defeat to Swansea City on Wednesday.

The loss at the Liberty Stadium ended West Brom's four-game winning run, although Clarke's side sit fourth in the Premier League having taken 26 points from 14 games this season.

"In terms of bouncing back, we don't have to prove anything on that score," Clarke told reporters.

"We'd lost a couple of games previously this year and we'd always come back in a good way and we look forward to doing that at the weekend.

"I was quite controlled about what I said at Swansea. We had a little chat at half-time about trying to do things better in the second half and there was a response."

Clarke revealed he did not criticise his players following their defeat to Swansea and has urged his team to get back to winning ways as they host Stoke City on Saturday,

"I’ve got no reason to have a go at these players; no reason whatsoever," Clarke said.

"We’re in a fantastic position and we’ve had a great season so far.

"We took 12 points out of 15 in November, which is a fantastic achievement for us - and we look forward to the month of December, which starts tomorrow against Stoke City.

"So, what would give me the excuse to have a go at them? There is no reason for it."