Steve Sidwell has been ruled out of Albion’s game against West Brom due to minor back surgery.

The midfielder went under the knife this week to alleviate a recurring back problem and his absence is expected to be short term.

Sidwell will now begin a rehabilitation period before returning to full training.

Albion boss Chris Hughton said: "It's a minor procedure and it has been successful.

“In terms of a recovery period, that will become clearer in due course, but we don't expect Steve to be absent for a prolonged period."

Albion are due at Bournemouth in the Premier League a week on Friday before returning to the Vitality Stadium the following midweek for a Carabao Cup tie.