“A massive blow” – West Bromwich Albion caretaker manager bemoans Maja’s injury

West Bromwich Albion caretaker manager, Chris Brunt, has lamented the absence of Super Eagles striker, Josh Maja, after the Nigerian picked up an injury, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 26-year-old has been vital in the Albions' quest for a place in the Championship play-offs spot this season, scoring twelve league goals, the second most in the English second-tier this term.

After scoring a brace against Preston North End on New Year's day, Maja featured in his side's 1-1 draw against Swansea City before he picked up a leg injury.

As per West Brom's official website, the former Fulham striker will undergo surgery in the coming days before entering a period of rehabilitation. The club expect the Nigerian to be back by the middle of February.

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Chris Brunt, who's been in charge of the Baggies since Carlos Corberan left to join Valencia last month, mentioned West Brom have extra work to do in finding goals without Maja, citing the striker's importance.

“It's not just his goals, it's his overall play. After missing last year with two bad ankle injuries, he's been in great form for us this season.

“It's been well documented that we haven't scored enough goals this season anyway, and to be without him now is a massive blow, but we just need people to chip in,” the Northern Irishman told BBC Radio WM in quotes revealed by BBC Sports.

West Brom have appointed a new permanent head coach. On Friday night, the club announced the appointment of former Ipswich Town coach, Tony Mowbray, who has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal. It is his second stint after coaching the club between 2006 and 2009.