Albion's new striker Leon Best steps up his quest for full match sharpness in the under-21s at home to Middlesbrough today.

Best, on loan from Blackburn Rovers for the rest of the season, was ineligible for yesterday's FA Cup defeat by Arsenal after playing in the competition for previous loan club Derby County.

The former Newcastle marksman made his Albion debut as a late substitute in last week's 3-2 home win over Ipswich.

The match against Middlesbrough at the Seagulls' training complex in Lancing (2pm) also signals the return to action of Dale Stephens.

The ex-Charlton midfielder has been out for nine months with ankle ligament and nerve damage.

Christian Walton, Adam Chicksen and Glen Rea, all on the bench for Arsenal's visit, are also involved.

Albion (probable): Walton; Barry, Dallison, Pappoe, Chicksen; Monakana, Rea, Stephens; Best, Starkey, Davis. Subs: Doherty, Hunt, Deen, Wiltshire, Muitt.