BOSS Chris Hughton believes Albion's strength in depth can help them press for automatic promotion.

But he expects Hull and Middlesbrough to be difficult to dislodge from the top two spots.

Hughton did not need to call upon new signing Jiri Skalak or fit-again winger Kazenga LuaLua in Friday night's 3-0 home win against Brentford.

Czech international Skalak, given time to settle in, was not in the squad and the explosive Kazenga LuaLua was an unused substitute.

Hughton will also have Gordon Greer, Uwe Huenemeier, Gaetan Bong, Liam Rosenior and Sam Baldock back from injury at different stages in the next few weeks.

A third straight victory against Brentford, following seven league games without a win, has left Albion just three points behind Hull and Boro and within two of Burnley.

Hughton said: "I think the period we had where we didn’t win makes it more difficult. What also makes it more difficult are the teams who are there.

"The top two, Middlesbrough and Hull, most people will perhaps see as favourites now.

"They are strong and Middlesbrough have strengthened with Jordan Rhodes, good business by them. Hull just have a know-how and a strength in the squad.

"Certainly the fact we have got even more competition for places, some hopefully back from injury soon, I think will give us an opportunity to push. But there is a long way to go and a lot of teams are in the mix."