THE versatile Chris Baird could miss out on a meeting against his former Clarets teammates on Sunday after he was forced to pull out of West Brom’s midweek League Cup victory.

Baird played seven times in the Championship for Burnley last season after joining on a short-term contract in March.

He was released at the end of the season but in July he signed a one-year deal at the Hawthorns.

The Northern Ireland international was due to make his third appearance for the Baggies against Hull City on Wednesday night, but had to withdraw in the afternoon because of illness.

His place was taken by 21-year-old Liam O’Neil, who shone on his full debut as West Brom scored twice in the final three minutes to win 3-2.

And Baggies boss Alan Irvine suggested he would be prepared to throw O’Neil into the Premier League against Burnley after praising his midweek performance.

“Liam only found out he was playing on the afternoon of the game because Chris complained of feeling unwell,” said Irvine.

“I have to say I thought he was outstanding and showed us what he is really capable of doing.

“It was a superb exercise for us because we managed to get full games out of so many players who needed them.

“To get a performance and result like we did as well only adds to the satisfaction.”

Burnley summer transfer target Craig Dawson is set to start in the Baggies backline after being rested for the win over Hull where he was an unused sub.