ROY Hodgson has eased fears that Peter Odemwingie will require ankle surgery.

Sources in Nigeria last night claimed the Albion striker was being sent back home to prepare for an operation in Amsterdam.

But the Baggies boss this morning insisted that was not the case.

Odemwingie will, however, be travelling to see a specialist in Holland, along with Albion's doctor Mark Gillett and long-term absentee Zoltan Gera, just to be checked over.

Albion expect both Odemwingie and Gera to be given the all clear.

The 30-year-old striker was singled out for criticism following Nigeria's failure to qualify for next year's African Cup of Nations.

Yet Hodgson believes Odemwingie's ankle problems tend to come to the fore psychologically when his form or confidence dips.

"There's no question of him needing an operation," said Hodgson.

"The doctor Mark Gillett has got a good relationship with Peter.

"But whenever Peter has a poor game he looks to his ankle.

"We know that's what he's been doing since I've been at the club.

"I don't know what went on in the Nigeria game but I know they didn't qualify, which must be a disaster for the country.