Sam Adekugbe said it was a proud moment to made his Championship debut – but admitted to mixed emotions.

The Canadian left-back played in the 2-0 defeat at Preston with Gaetan Bong and Sebastian Pocognoli ruled out.

He earned his place thanks partly to his performance in the FA Cup win over MK Dons the previous week.

Adekugbe, on loan from MLS outfit Vancouver, said: “I can say this is my full debut. Even though I’ve played in America, I’ve always wanted to play in England. To make my debut, I’m very happy.

“I think it comes down to my faith and God. He has been able to bring me to this position now.

“It is mixed emotions. I’m very disappointed we lost.

“We weren’t at our game today but it just goes to show the standard we set for ourselves and the aim which we have, which is to get promotion.”

Adekugbe, who received the call on Friday, said his big chance had come ahead of schedule.

He added: “Everything has happened really fast. I’ve been injured while I was here.

“To make my debut – I’ll be honest and say I didn’t anticipate it happening any time soon.

“It would be even better to be part of a promotion team.

“Some young kid from Canada helping the Albion get to where they need to be.

“But we need to get there first.”