Albion midfielder Keith Andrews has been told he could have a future back at Bolton.

The Irish international misses tomorrow’s trip to the Reebok as a condition of his loan deal.

Dougie Freedman praised Andrews, 33, for going elsewhere to get more regular playing time – and revealed Wanderers are helping pay his wages.

The Bolton boss has kept the door ajar for a return to the Bolton squad next season for Andrews, who is under contract until summer 2015.

Freedman said: “I have spoken to Keith and, at his age, he wanted to play football, which I respect.

“He wasn’t one of those who wanted to sit around so we let him go out on loan and sponsored the deal.

“I expect him back here this summer and we will take it from there. If he shows what he is capable of showing in the summer, it is a different season and we can look at it again.

“I’ve had no contact with Brighton. You never do. It is always through agents and chairmen.

"I don't disagree with Keith (for going) and I respect him for that.”