Pablo Asensio has described Whitehawk’s friendly against Albion under-23s as “massive” for his club.

The Seagulls’ development squad are at the Enclosed Ground tonight (7.45pm) and will come up against hosts keen to make an impression.

Hawks hope for a good turnout and, as well as tuning up for the National League season, also see the occasion as a shop window for their club.

Asensio is rebuilding his side in his first pre-season as boss and is also keen for the club to build its fanbase.

He said: “It’s massive for us. There is no point in hiding and saying it’s another friendly because it isn’t. We keep saying there are two teams in Brighton so let’s show it.

“We respect Brighton as a club who represent the city so well, week in and week out. But we will fight for our corner. We are growing. We are getting better and we are hungry.”

Hawks completed the signing of Mike West at the weekend but have a couple of injuries. They will take no risks with Brazilian playmaker Kleyton and French forward Wilfried Tagbo.

Asensio said: “Everyone who starts will get quite a few minutes. I won’t make so many substitutions because I see it as an important game in our pre-season.

“People will come to see the game and we need to make sure we put on a performance.”

Asensio will use West primarily on the right-hand side this season and has made him one of three club captains along with Sergio Torres, pictured above, and Danny Mills.

Torres will lead the team out but Asensio said: “I name three captains for around the changing room or in case Sergio is not playing.

“Sergio has that experience, that age, that CV. He’s a winner. Danny is also a huge figure around the club and Westy is a Football League player.

“The new players who are coming to this country trying to make a start in English football will respect them.”

West has played for Hawks already in pre-season but only signed at the weekend.

Asensio said: “It’s a big signing for us. He is quick, creative, a fans’ favourite and you couldn’t have a better character in the changing room.”