West Brom striker Saido Berahino has “wasted three or four months” of his career, according to Baggies boss Tony Pulis.
The 22-year-old forward suggested he would not play for Baggies chairman Jeremy Peace again after a move to Tottenham was blocked last August.
He has again been linked with a move in the January transfer window.
“It’s been dreadful to have an outstanding player who has dropped off because of circumstances,” said Pulis.
“It has not helped us at all.
“If he’s still here [after January], he’s got to start realising that this is affecting everybody. He’s got to get back to what he was.
“Saido has to realise he is a footballer. In my opinion, he has wasted three or four months and he can’t afford to waste any more time.”
Berahino has made 18 league outings for West Brom this season, with 10 as a substitute, and scored three goals.
“I’m not picking him because he’s not been anywhere near what he was last year,” added Pulis.
“You have to make him understand that we are playing at the top of our profession and every week you have to be at the top of your form. Unfortunately, that hasn’t been Saido, mentally or physically.
“I like the kid, I spend a lot of time with the kid but my biggest worry with him is that he has so many other people out there who influence him.”
Sandro having medical with Baggies
Meanwhile, QPR midfielder Sandro is having a medical at West Brom with a view to a loan move until the end of the season.
Pulis wants cover because of injuries to James Morrison and Callum McManaman, and has spoken to Harry Redknapp, who managed the Brazilian at Tottenham and QPR, about signing the 26-year-old.
“It’s not been done. He’s a player we would like to bring in if we can. Sandro has got very good experience,” said Pulis.
Sandro has made 11 appearances for QPR so far this season, with his last outing coming in a 1-1 draw with Huddersfield on 28 December last year.
“I’ve spoken to Harry about him and one or two other people,” added Pulis.
“Technically, he is an excellent player. He’s lost his way a little bit at QPR over the past year or two but there is no question over his ability.”
McManaman has been ruled out for four to six weeks with an ankle ligament injury and joins Morrison, who is out for two months with a knee problem, on the sidelines.
