Albion have fast-tracked 16-year-old striker James Tilley into the first team squad for their final match of the season at Middlesbrough today.

Tilley is in the party that flew up to the North-East last night, a reward from boss Chris Hughton for his rapid rise through the ranks.

First year scholar Tilley, from Weald School, has signed a pro contract after catching the eye for the under-16s, under-18s and under-21s.

He tweeted last night: "Glad to have got my initiation song for the 1st team over and done with."

Tilley will be 17 in June.

Jake Forster-Caskey is Albion's youngest ever player. The England under-21s midfielder was 13 days past his 16th birthday when he came on as a sub against Yeovil at Withdean in 2010.