Nicolas Anelka has told West Brom manager Steve Clarke he wants to leave the club.

The Hawthorns boss confirmed the news this morning.

When asked if Anelka used the word 'quit', Clarke confirmed he had:  "I'm not going to deny that he used that word."

But Clarke holds out hope that he can convince the striker to return to the game.

The former Real Madrid, Liverpool and Arsenal striker has recently suffered a bereavement and has already been released on compassionate leave.

The Frenchman's agent Eric Manasse passed away.