Chris Hughton has revealed how Albion players reported back ahead of schedule in the quest for full fitness.

Now he expects them to step up their pre-season preparations against Premier League opponents.

Hughton will use his full squad in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Southampton today.

But he has revealed some of his star exceeded targets in the build-up to pre-season graft.

Hughton said: “These boys have come back bang on the weight and body fat levels we want “Some have even come in below that.

“Generally, going back a few years, players needed a week or two to get back to full fitness and lose a few pounds. Not any more.”

Danny Holla, who had only a limited pre-season last summer before his move from Holland, is among those looking in good shape.

Hughton said: “Yes, Danny looks fit and lean. But he is no different to the other lads in that.”

Dale Stephens has recovered from illness which kept him out of the 6-1 win over Swiss minnows Meyrin on Saturday.

He will hope for some work today but Hughton is playing a safe as possible.

Hughton said: “Dale is fine. Gordon (Greer) came off with a very slight abductor problem and we will await that one.

“Andrew Crofts has done all the training but we have been careful with him.

“We are not into quite a busy series of games.

“Southampton is a game where we will use the whole said we have got available.

“Then we will make a decision for Lewes at the weekend over which players will be involved.”