West Bromwich Albion have moved swiftly to quash rumours regarding Jason Koumas' absence by insisting he is not due back until next week.
Reports from Wales were suggesting that Albion's midfielder, who spent last season on loan at Cardiff City, had snubbed manager Bryan Robson's first day of pre-season training yesterday.
However, Albion have granted the Wales international permission to return on Tuesday because of dental surgery.
Robson had three other absentees yesterday. John Hartson was unavailable due to a prior personal commitment while Tomasz Kuszczak and Junichi Inamoto have been given an extra week off following their involvement at the World Cup.
The Baggies will be handed a fillip today as Steve Watson will finally sign a new two-year contract.
