Chris Hughton believes out-of-sorts Jiri Skalak could be paying a price for his busy summer.

But the Albion boss has stressed his Czech international wideman is working as hard as ever for the cause.

Hughton appears to face a decision on the left wing for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday tonight.

Former Sheffield United favourite Jamie Murphy did his case for a start no harm with his efforts as substitute at Preston last Saturday.

Solly March shone as substitute at Birmingham, offered glimpses of magic when starting against QPR and is a favourite among fans.

Skalak has been off target with much of his crossing of late but his contribution remains valued by the management with four starts in the last five league games.

Only twice has he failed to get on the pitch during a league game, most recently the 2-2 draw with Preston on October 15.

Those stats speak volumes for how he is seen behind the scenes but Hughton recognises he has not been at his best in terms of creating chances of late.

The Albion boss said: “I think it is fair to say that offensively he has gone through better periods than what he is at the moment.

“What he gives is very much a work ethic.

“When we go through the stats after the game or the next day, then generally he is still very high on his work load and his output from the game.

“He is certainly working but somebody like him is an offensive player.

“Those creative players want to be scoring goals or, in his case, making assists.”

Asked if the effects of his exertions with the Czechs at Euro 2016 were having any impact on his current performances, Hughton said: “That can be a case where lads have gone through the summer.

“Some of the foreign international lads will have had less of a break.

“But also offensive players can have ups and downs in performances.”

WINGERS' MINUTES
1,997: Anthony Knockaert (23+1 apps).
1,500: Jiri Skalak (18+5).
990: Jamie Murphy (10+9).
145: Solly March (1+5).
44: Kazenga LuaLua (0+3).
Stats for league games only.