Martin Hinshelwood has laid down a challenge to Albion under-17s to retain their Youth Alliance title.

The team provisionally kick off their season at Northampton on August 18 and entertain Wycombe the following week.

Albion director of youth Hinshelwood said: "To retain it would be a fine achievement.

"It is a big year for the boys in that side because 14 or 15 of them are looking to get pro contracts."

The under-19s, who were third last season, will provisionally entertain Wycombe in their opening fixture followed by a trip to east London to face Leyton Orient seven days later.

They are at Horsham YMCA tonight and Wimbledon on August 11 in another away friendly. Albion under-19s will this season meet Alliance newcomers QPR.

Youth manager Dean Wilkins is attending a two-week coaching course at Lilleshall.