Head coach Alan Irvine has insisted that Jonas Olsson is still "a very important" member of his West Bromwich Albion squad.

Following errors in recent outings, the Swede was dropped for yesterday's trip to Tottenham Hotspur, which the Baggies won 1-0.

However, Irvine has reassured the 31-year-old that he remains a firm part of his plans for the coming months.

"Jonas wasn't injured. I spoke to him on Saturday and told him what my intentions were. That wasn't easy because I have a lot of respect for Jonas. He's a top professional and a very good player," the Scot told the Express & Star.

"I had some big decisions to make and I had to look people in the eye to tell them why I was making those decisions. That's not easy but it's part of my job. Jonas will remain a very important member of our squad."

Olsson joined West Brom from N.E.C back in 2008.