Albion say Jakub Moder’s recovery from knee surgery remains on course after a second operation.

But they do not expect to see him back in action until 2023.

That would rule him out of the World Cup finals.

Albion have responded to what they describe as “ill-formed and inaccurate reports” questioning their treatment and rehabilitation programme for the midfielder.

Moder ruptured his ACL in the draw with Norwich four months ago, just minutes after going on as substitute and days after helping Poland reach Qatar.

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He recently underwent a second operation.

Technical director David Weir said: “Jakub’s initial diagnosis was a very complex and severe injury to his knee, and we always felt it was unrealistic to expect him back before the end of this calendar year.

“The club’s management and medical team has involved Jakub in all decision making on his treatment and rehabilitation plans, and he recently spent six weeks back home rehabbing in Poland “On his return to England he experienced some stiffness and restrictions in his movement as he stepped up the rehab, so underwent a second surgical procedure, to alleviate the issue.

“This is a common procedure that is required when dealing with such a significant trauma to the knee.

“We fully appreciate the desire to be available for the World Cup, but we have always been clear that the chance of this was always very slim.

“His rehab is still following the timescale that we originally envisaged.”

Graham Potter said he would not hurry Moder back into action.

The head coach added: “It’s too early to say with timescales now.

“We’re just concentrating on getting him fit and right.”

Potter is happy his squad have come through pre-season unscathed.

He added: “I don’t think there are any big problems.

“We need to check but pre-season has gone well with injuries, so touch wood we’ll be okay.”