Andrew Crofts played 45 minutes for an Albion development line-up as he continued his return from a serious knee injury today.

The Welsh international, out of action for almost ten months, operated in central midfield during a goalless first half in a friendly against the Nike Academy.

He reported no ill effects after making his pre-planned exit at half-time.

Albion eventually lost the game 2-1 to a cosmopolitan collection of talented youngters looking to find a way back into the professional game.

Reece Meekums put Albion ahead just after the break.

They had further chances but were beaten by crisp low finishes from ex-Spurs youngster Bilal Sayoud and Dom McGiveron, who was previously on the books of both Everton and Liverpool.

Daniel Akindayini, the striker signed from Spurs this summer, played the first half for Albion.