Albion boss Micky Adams is backing Matthew Wicks to shrug off a lack of match practice.

Wicks, limited to 16 minutes of first team action since Christmas, returns to the centre of defence at Exeter on Saturday.

The fit-again former Peterborough stopper replaces Danny Cullip who starts a three-match suspension.

A hamstring strain in the home win over Exeter on December 22 and a calf injury have restricted Wicks to a late substitute appearance against Southend on New Year's Day.

Rookie Adam Virgo is the only other recognised centre half in the squad, so Adams' hands are tied. He has to throw Wicks straight back into the firing line and won't play him in the reserves against Barnet at Worthing tonight in case he gets injured again.

"We had a reserve game at Southampton last week and we've had a hard week's training," Adams said.

"Friday and Saturday were spent on fitness assessments, so I think Matt will be all right. He might be a bit rusty, but I think we all will be."

Wicks and Andy Crosby have never partnered each other before.

"If it's going to make a difference there is not a lot I can do about it," Adams said. "The balance will be okay, because Matt is left-footed and Andy right. Their task now is to keep Danny Cullip out."

Lee Steele is scheduled to make his comeback from a knee injury in the reserves (7.0). Trialists David Birmingham, from Bognor, and Dave Adams, from Hailsham, could also figure.

Meanwhile Chesterfield stretched their lead over Albion at the top of the Third Division to 12 points after Rob Edwards' 51st-minute goal earned them a 1-0 win over York City last night. Albion do have four games in hand. Cardiff missed the chance to move above Seagulls after their trip to Shrewsbury was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.