Albion boss Micky Adams has hinted at a return on home territory for Lee Steele.

But the rejuvenated striker faces a long wait before he is taken off the transfer list.

Adams is considering whether to start with Steele for Saturday's trip to Tranmere.

Steele, born a few miles away from Prenton Park in Liverpool, has put himself in the frame after two influential substitute appearances.

He came on for Dirk Lehmann against Wimbledon on Tuesday and immediately helped set up both goals for Bobby Zamora in the Seagulls' shock 2-1 Worthington Cup win.

That followed last Saturday's League victory by the same score against Wigan at Withdean, when Steele struck the winner within a minute of replacing Lehmann.

Adams said: "How can I keep him out of the team now? I have got some serious thinking to do."

Steele, convicted of drink-driving earlier this month, has been on the list since the end of last season.

"We are only three games into the new season," said Adams.

"If he is playing like this at Christmas we will be talking about a new contract, but it suits him to be on the transfer list at the moment."

Unbeaten Albion must cope without midfielders Charlie Oatway and Paul Rogers on Saturday.

Oatway completes a three-match ban, while skipper Rogers is serving a one-match suspension.

Steve Melton is the favourite to replace Rogers and Simon Morgan or Danny Cullip will take over as captain.

"Obviously we are missing Paul so I will have to think about that, but who ever comes in should have the bit between their teeth," Adams said.

"I have named the same side and substitutes, apart from Charlie Oatway, for three games. They are doing the business at the moment and we've still got some good players to come in.

"We can't get carried away with it and I won't let people do that, but we are enjoying it at the moment and looking forward to Tranmere now."

Albion find out their Worthington Cup second round opponents shortly before Saturday's game. The draw will be made during ITV's On The Ball programme.