Saido Berahino was 'lucky' to be on the West Brom bench for Newcastle clash, says Baggies boss Tony Pulis

Tony Pulis made the startling admission that Saido Berahino was fortunate to be on the bench for West Brom's win over Newcastle.

Berahino appears to have angered the West Brom head coach for his conduct over Christmas and was been overlooked in favour of Victor Anichebe, who has not started since the Capital One Cup defeat by Norwich on September 23.

The decision was a huge put-down for Berahino, who was hoping to feature given the suspension of Salomon Rondon. 

West Brom striker Saido Berahino watches on from the bench as the Baggies took on Newcastle

Berahino comes on for James Morrison in the 70th minute during the win over Newcastle 

Berahino played the final 20 minutes of the game against Newcastle on Monday 

Saido Berahino, in action as a substitute at Swansea on Boxing Day, did not start against Newcastle

Anichebe has only played for 16 minutes of Premier League football this season and looked surplus to requirements at the club.

Speaking before the game, Pulis said: 'With Saido, I’m an experienced manager and things go on at a football club which determine whether a player is in a team or not.

'Today Saido is lucky to be on the bench never mind starting. There are things that go on at a football club that people don’t see.

'He’s a smashing kid but he lets himself down at times. There’s no problem (now). It’s been sorted out.'

Berahino came off the bench in the 70th minute for James Morrison and played the final 20 minutes. 

Rickie Lambert was also on the bench after playing the entire 90 minutes against Swansea on Boxing Day - but came on for Anichebe in the 88th minute.

West Brom won the game 1-0 thanks to a Darren Fletcher goal 12 minutes from time.  

West Brom manager Tony Pulis says 'Saido is lucky to be on the bench never mind starting'

Berahino last scored for West Brom in October (left) and has since spent a majority of time on the bench

The England striker, challenging for possession at Swansea, will started on the bench again on Monday