Dale Stephens has come through his first test on the comeback trail with Albion.

The midfielder had a pre-planned half-hour run-out in a 3-0 victory for the under-21s against Middlesbrough at the Seagulls' training complex in Lancing today.

Stephens has been sidelined since suffering ankle ligament and nerve damage against Yeovil at the Amex in April.

He will get further game time in the under-21s at home to Cambridge United on Thursday.

Leon Best also played for an hour as Albion won with first half goals by Jesse Starkey (2) and Jeffrey Monakana.

Starkey's first was from the rebound after his penalty had been saved by Boro keeper Luke Coddington.

Albion (4-1-2-3): Walton; Barry (Hunt 77), Pappoe, Dallison, Chicksen; Rea; Stephens (Harris 30), Starkey; Davis, Best (Deen 61), Monakana. Subs not used: Doherty, Muitt.