Nicolas Anelka will not play for Albion against Everton this weekend having been granted compassionate leave following the death of his agent.
Sky Sports earlier reported the striker had trained with the club but then announced his immediate retirement from football to his teammates.
Subsequent reports have revealed that the striker arrived at training and was granted compassionate leave having been affected by the death of his close friend Eric Manasse.
A statement by the club said: "West Bromwich Albion can confirm that Nicolas Anelka will not be involved in Saturday’s game at Everton.
"The club have excused the striker from club duty on compassionate grounds."
Anelka made his league debut for Albion during Saturday’s disappointing 1-0 defeat to Southampton.
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