Torbjorn Agdestein has set his sights on Championship and international action.

But the young Norwegian admits the Football League decision to allow teams only five substitutes this term has made life tougher.

Now he has revealed how Albion’s development squad players are determined to work even harder for Championship action.

Agdestein, who continued his productive pre-season with two goals against Ryman League new boys Crawley Down on Tuesday, said: “I still want to play for the first team in the Championship.

“It would be noticed at home, maybe help me get in Norway under-21s, “The new subs’ rule will affect us. We were talking about trying to send something to the PFA from the young players saying this is ridiculous.

“But it means we have just got to work harder. That is what we will do.”

Agdestein could target a place in the squad which faces Gillingham in the Carling Cup next Tuesday, when Mackail-Smith will be on international duty.

He added: “I’ve played a few games for the first team both in Portugal and back here and I’ve been doing well in training.

“Gus has said I’m doing all right.

“Competition will be tough but being with better players means I’m going to be better if I can learn from them.”