Neil Clement will have to wait until the 2009/2010 season to kick a ball in anger again after Tony Mowbray revealed the Baggies' longest serving player is out for the rest of the campaign.
Clement limped off in Albion's final pre-season fixture against Real Mallorca at The Hawthorns and underwent a major operation on his right knee back in September with doctors hoping he could feature this term.
However, after progressing well with his rehabilitation and receiving positive news from his specialist, Tony Mowbray has revealed he expects Clem back on the training field next season instead, unfortunately, this.
"I think Clem's recovery is on schedule," Mowbray admitted.
"We're not anticipating seeing him this season.
"The specialist who saw him last week is positive.
"Hopefully his rehabilitation will run smoothly and he'll be doing pre-season with everyone else."