Tomer Hemed was today urged to seize his Premier League chance – after escaping a move to the Championship.

The Israeli striker has been declared fit by his club to play against West Brom at the Amex today after missing midweek international action with a minor thigh strain.

Hemed would have been playing his football in the second tier today had Albion enjoyed more success in signing strikers this summer.

Now Albion could look to him to set their season rolling as they seek their first top-flight goal since Gordon Smith netted at Norwich 34-and-a-half years ago.

Seagulls boss Chris Hughton said: “Tomer will have the same response as he always has.

“He is a very genuine individual. He really enjoys being here and really enjoys being a Premier League player. He has always worked hard for this club and he will continue to do so.”

Although Albion were willing to let Hemed go, it would only have been at a substantial price.

They knocked back bids from Reading and another, unidentified, Championship club.

Hemed was determined to keep his Premier League dream alive.

Hughton said: “The one thing about speculation is that the players all hear it.

“Sometimes the players know more than we do!

“There aren’t too many secrets and ultimately everybody just has to get on with it.”