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Capital One Cup: Alan Irvine vows to protect West Brom striker Saido Berahino

Image: Saido Berahino: The striker has been tipped for an England call-up.

Alan Irvine has defended his decision to rest rising star Saido Berahino in West Brom's shock 2-1 defeat at Bournemouth on Tuesday in the Capital One Cup.

Berahino was among 10 changes made by the Albion boss from the side that snatched a 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw with Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The Baggies manager insisted he is determined not to overuse the 21-year-old with the hectic Christmas schedule ahead.

"Saido's getting a lot of attention at the moment, he's being asked to do a lot as well," Irvine said.

"They are away playing international games as well, and it's a big ask.

"I'm sure Albion fans would be bitterly disappointed if Saido Berahino were to be suddenly injured because we weren't looking after him.

"It's managing the whole situation, we have a squad of players who will need to be ready and will be used over the coming weeks.”

Berahino has scored eight goals this season including six in his last five games.

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