Clarke defends Anelka's barren goal spell
West Brom manager Steve Clarke has insisted that Nicolas Anelka should not be blamed for the side's lack of goals.
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Clarke's men have scored just once in their opening four Premier League game, which came last Saturday as Gareth McAuley clinched a 92nd-minute equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Fulham.
And with all eyes fixed on former Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Real Madrid striker Anelka - who signed on a one-year deal in July - manager Clarke does not feel like the finger should be pointed at the 34-year-old as West Brom prepare to face Sunderland on Saturday.
"Nicolas Anelka's form has been, by and large, good – he's been ok," he told the club's official website.
"He's brought a different dimension to the team.
"Regardless, I think it's wrong that people single out Nicolas as a name.
"He's part of a team that has struggled to create chances.
"But it's not just about Nicolas creating or scoring goals – everyone has to chip in.
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"When you're a star – Nicolas is a star in the world of football – you will grab the headlines.
"But football is a team game. we're delighted Nicolas is here, we're delighted he’s raised the profile of the club but it’s everyone's job to do well and create chances and score."
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