West Brom have made an inquiry about taking Ashley Ward on loan from City.

The striker, who nearly joined Barnsley last month, is one of the Baggies targets as the play-off contenders look for cover for injured Jason Roberts.

City chief executive Shaun Harvey confirmed: "They have made an inquiry about Ashley exactly as they did about several other forwards around the country like Sergei Rebrov and Lee Hughes.

"But there's nothing in the offing at the moment. And anyway, any inquiries can only be described as tentative because Ashley is currently injured."

Ward, Valley Parade's second highest earner on around £18,000 a week, missed Friday's defeat to Manchester City.

And he is also doubtful for tomorrow's home clash with Birmingham after being unable to train today.

Boss Nicky Law said: "He got a kick on the top of his foot at Stockport which is still painful. I think he's going to be struggling to play tomorrow night."

Third-placed West Brom are desperate to find a loan signing after Roberts broke his foot for the third time this season.

Their chief executive John Wile said: "We have spoken to a number of clubs."

Ward has hit 11 goals so far despite missing three months with ankle trouble.