Pervis Estupinan says he is working hard for a return to top form and fitness.

The Albion left-back has revealed he has been affected by an ankle issue in recent months.

But he says there are no excuses as he strives for the levels which at one stage made him arguably the best left-back in the Premier League.

Estupinan has slipped below those levels since returning from an injury-enforced absence, despite an explosive initial impact with sensational goals against Tottenham and Stoke City.

He came in for more criticism for his performance as captain of Ecuador in a 2-0 friendly defeat by Italy in New Jersey.

Estupinan told TV reporters: "I'm struggling, I've had problems with my ankle.

“I'll try to go back and see what to do to be 100%.

“I have wanted to be with the national team, to fight for it, but there are no excuses.

"I try to give my all and I will continue working."

Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi recently backed Estupinan to return to the highs of last term De Zerbi told The Argus: “He lost the best of his physical condition and it is tough for him because, with his physical characteristics, he needs to play and not miss games.

“I am confident he can come back the same player we saw last season.”

Jeremy Sarmiento, the Albion forward on loan to Ipswich, had two starts for Ecuador over the current international window.

Having shone against Guatemala, he retained his place in what was seen as a first choice XI against Itlay.

Sarmiento said: “I’m very happy, to be honest, to come here to the national team after a year and start both games.

“For me, it’s very important to gain confidence, to gain rhythm as well.

“Obviously, I’ll return to my club with more rhythm too.”