Albion playmaker Darren Currie revealed today he has got over the agony of being dropped against his first club West Ham.

Currie's proud record of being the only outfield player to start every match this season came to an end at Upton Park last Saturday as he was relegated to the bench.

The dead ball expert had to sit and watch until the closing stages, when he replaced Steve Claridge in the Seagulls' shock 1-0 win.

Currie, a trainee and pro with the Hammers, said: "I put it behind me almost straight away and I am now focused on and preparing for Saturday's game against Burnley.

"The fact that it was West Ham made it worse, but it is never nice to be dropped at any stage of the season.

"I was disappointed because I felt I played well in the previous match against Crewe, but the gaffer made his decision and what can you say now?

"He was proved right. The lads put in a tremendous performance and it was an important three points, which could become even more important in the bigger picture."

Manager Mark McGhee admitted: "Darren has arguably been our most consistent player. He was fantastic against Crewe, even though we lost, but as far as I am concerned the decision has been justified because we won."

Gary Hart celebrated his return from a three-match ban with the winner for Albion Reserves as they beat QPR 1-0 at Loftus Road yesterday.