Sam Baldock has vowed not to give up on his Premier League dream – as Chris Hughton assesses his attacking riches.

The forward could be set for more frustration when Albion face Swansea City at the Amex on Saturday.

But he has told The Argus he remains determined to get involved in the quest to secure top-flight safety.

Baldock has made just one substitute appearance in the league and, with Tomer Hemed, was left out of the matchday 18 at Stoke recently.

The arrival of Jurgen Locadia and Leo Ulloa has pushed both men down the pecking order.

Baldock admitted: “It has been a really disappointing season for me.

“Things are out of my hands but the lack of opportunity to prove myself I have found disappointing.

“I don’t think there has been any more I could do in training.

“It is just wanting to get on the pitch and show what I can do.”

Baldock, who was ruled out of opening weeks of the campaign by a calf problem, said he had no thoughts of seeking an exit during last month’s transfer window.

He said: “I want to play Premier League football and prove myself.

“I’ll knuckle down, keep working hard and, hopefully, that opportunity comes.

“I’m fine. I’ve been fine since October so that has not been an issue.”

Baldock is aware fortunes can change quickly.

He said: “That is what I keep telling myself and people keep telling me.

“I wouldn’t wish ill on anyone and first and foremost we have got to survive in the toughest division in the world.

“The manager has a tough decision and he is going to go with what he thinks is best to keep us up.”

If there is no way into the league 18, Baldock would love to feature at Manchester United in the last eight of the FA Cup.

He has played at some stage of all three ties so far and hit the bar against Coventry last Saturday.

The former Bristol City and West Ham forward said: “I hit it quite well and I thought it was in.

“Chances like that come with game sharpness and that is something I’ve not had.

“Who knows what the manager will do going forward but hopefully it will be one I get in the the squad for.

“I would have liked to have started (against Coventry) but it wasn’t to be.”

Meanwhile midfielder Steve Sidwell has reiterated his upbeat message over his recovery from an ankle injury.
He said: “I’m six weeks post-op and I’m looking to be back at training in two weeks’ time. Hopefully I can get back and play some part of the season.”