West Bromwich Albion have been dealt a blow with the news that Matt Phillips is set to be out injured for around six weeks, according to journalist Joe Chapman.
The Lowdown: Phillips' importance to West Brom
The 31-year-old has continued to be an important figure for the Baggies this season, appearing 25 times in the Championship and starting 14 matches.
Phillips has chipped in with two goals and two assists in the league, with Chapman saluting the Scotland international's 'outstanding' crossing ability just last week.
Carlos Corberan's side were beaten 2-1 at Burnley on Friday night, and while the result was disappointing, it wasn't the only negative to emerge from the match for Albion.
The Latest: Phillips hit by injury blow
Taking to Twitter last night in sharing a corresponding article for Birmingham Live, Chapman confirmed that Phillips is expected to be absent for at least six weeks, with the injury blow possibly sparking the West Brom hierarchy into action in the transfer market.
The article mentioned that the 31-year-old has been struck by a quad injury, having limped out of the midweek FA Cup win over Chesterfield despite only coming on as a substitute.
The reporter tweeted:
"Bad news re Phillips, who is expected to be out for at least six weeks. You have to imagine that'll impact on Albion's transfer thinking."
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The Verdict: Big blow to Baggies' promotion hopes
This is an undoubted blow for West Brom, considering Phillips' vast experience of 229 appearances for the club.
He may not be a nailed-on starter every singly week - indeed, he has only completed the full 90 minutes four times this season - but his experience could still be crucial to the Baggies' promotion push, having helped QPR into the top flight nine years ago.
Not having Phillips available until March could leave Corberan with a headache in terms of squad depth, and the hope is that the Scotland winger will be available for the business end of the campaign.
As Chapman referenced, it could force West Brom into making a new signing during the January transfer window in order to make up for the loss of Phillips.