West Bromwich Albion boss Alan Irvine insists Gareth McAuley and Jonas Olsson are part of his plans.
The pair have been usurped in recent weeks by new defensive duo Joleon Lescott and Craig Dawson.
"They want to play and I would be bitterly disappointed if they didn't. One thing's for sure, they train really well," the head coach said.
"They need to do what any good professional would do and make sure they are ready for when their chance comes because one thing is for sure, it will come.
"There will be an injury, suspension or loss of form somewhere and if you are not ready to grab that chance then you'll find yourself - at least for a short while, back out again."
