Clem rules out Premier League return

Last updated : 08 April 2009 By Wba-mad Editor

Injury victim Neil Clement has ruled out a chance to play in the Premier League after admitting defeat in his attempt to battle back from a serious knee injury.

The Baggies' longest serving player was instrumental in helping the club achieve promotion towards the end of last season but saw his hopes of testing his abilities against the world's elite shattered in the final pre-season fixture against Real Mallorca.

In a repeat of the same injury to the left knee which kept 'Clem' sidelined for the majority of last season an identical problem in his right knee has now ruled the former Chelsea man out for the remained of the season.

"I'm pleased with the way things are going," Clement said.

"I'm back running now, which is great.

"It's nice to be out of the gym and be outside.

"It's about getting fitter and fitter now.

"I think realistically I've got to write off this season.

"If I rushed back I could do myself some damage.

"It's taking longer than my left knee took.

"But saying that,I probably came back too soon with my left one and had complications, so I'm being a bit more careful so I don't end up breaking down.

"I've run out of time really.

"In my head it's all about being back in pre-season and not using pre-season to get fit.

"I want to be back training with the lads in about a month so after that I can keep ticking over with my fitness during the summer."