Dale Stephens will not have any problem with being surrounded by Manchester United fans today.

It will take him back to his childhood in nearby Bolton.

Stephens grew up in a strong United area at the time Sir Alex Ferguson’s men were dominating the Premier League.

But he remained staunch in support of his local team rather than following mates to Old Trafford.

Wanderers went toe to toe with the best in the Premier League back then.

Stephens told The Argus: “We are all Bolton fans in my family.

“I’ve got a lot of friends who are Manchester United fans.

“All the way through school, it was all United fans – to be fair United fans are everywhere.

“There will be a lot of messages but, if we get a good result then I’m sure I’ll have the bragging rights.”

Stephens believes Albion do not need to improve too much on their display last time out against Stoke.

He said: “I think performance-wise we were decent.

“It was disappointing to go behind so early but I think we showed good, steely qualities.

“We have shown we can pick ourselves up and drag ourselves back into the game.”

Stephens would love to add to goals he has scored for the Seagulls at Wigan (twice), Blackburn (twice) and at home to Burnley, Blackpool and Bolton as he visits the Theatre of Dreams.

He said: “I don’t know what it is about the North West but my record speaks for itself.

“If it repeats this time, then I’ll be more than happy.”