Izzy Brown reckons patience has paid off – as he helps Albion through a striker shortage.

The on-loan Chelsea prospect has revealed his comeback from a hamstring problem was put on hold by the Seagulls’ medical staff.

But he reckons they got it just right and have him fighting fit for life as a No.10, out wide – or as centre-forward.

Brown led the attack at Arsenal on his return from what turned into a seven-week absence.

He told The Argus: “It was tough because I always thought I’d be back sooner than I was.

“The physios kept delaying and delaying and they did it for what is best for me.

“In my head I thought I could be back two weeks before but they didn’t want to rush it.

“Now I feel fit although I’m still getting to 100% so I can be better.

“The international break for means more rehab and more fitness work to get back to 100%. I am still not there yet but I will be soon.

“It was a pulled hamstring and nerve so it was a bit more than expected.”

Glenn Murray got on for the closing stages and looked a threat.

He will now target a place against Everton a week on Sunday.

But Brown would give it another go – and knows it could be a route into the side with Pascal Gross impressing at No.10.

He said: “Of course I fancy another crack at it. If I’m on the pitch, I’m happy.

“If the manager wants me, I’ll give it 100%.”

Tomer Hemed, suspended for two more club matches, is set to start for Israel in Liechtenstein on Friday and at home to Spain on Monday.