West Brom expect to land Sodje

West Brom are expected to complete the loan signing of Reading centre-back Sam Sodje on Saturday morning.

The Baggies are hoping to land the 27-year-old on a month-long deal in time for him to be included in the squad for Sunday's derby with Coca-Cola Championship leaders Birmingham.

Manager Tony Mowbray said: "We need to bring in reinforcements in central defence and Sam will bring both a real competitive edge and athleticism to the team."

He added: "He's as big a presence in the opposition box as he is defending in his own penalty area because he attacks the ball exceptionally well."

The Baggies boss moved for Sodje after losing captain Curtis Davies for the rest of the season with a broken foot.

Fellow defender Martin Albrechtsen will also serve a one-match ban on Sunday following his red card against Crystal Palace.